Tammy Jean Hustad

Tammy Jean Hustad, 64, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025, while in hospice care.

Tammy was born on July 5, 1960, in Madison, Wi. She graduated from Central High School in 1978 in Chattanooga, and later earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Work in Pasadena, Ca. While living in California, Tammy discovered her passion for working with developmentally challenged individuals and dedicated over 20 years to serving in that field at Villa Esperanza before moving back to Chattanooga to be closer to family.

She spent the next 20 years of her life in special needs education and had a profound impact on many young lives through her work at Open Arms Care and Orange Grove Center. Most recently, she taught in the Walker County School System and especially cherished her time at Ridgeland High School, where she often said she had “the best classroom in the school.” Her kind heart, joyful presence, and devotion to her students left a lasting legacy.

Tammy was a beloved sister, aunt, and friend. She had a gentle spirit and a love for family, especially her nieces and nephews, whom she adored and spoiled. She was a generous gift giver. Her strength in the face of challenges and her ability to bring joy to those around her will always be remembered.

Her hobbies included antique and home decor shopping, craft shows, decorating, and watching old movies. She was an avid card sender, loved making hydrangea bouquets and celebrating the 4th of July since it was so close to her birthday.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Nancy Jean Olson and Ralph Edward Hustad.

Tammy is survived by her sisters, Tina (Kevin) Parks of Chattanooga, Theresa Hustad of Rossville, and Tabatha Vaughn of Rossville; and her brothers, Tim (Catherine) Hustad of Collegedale, and Todd (Aimee) Hustad of Wayne, Mi.

She is also survived by her nieces: Lauren (Rob) Scott of Sunnyvale, Ca.; Ali Parks of Chattanooga; Gray Mercury (Rhett) of Portland, Me.; Zoe Hustad, Olivia Hustad, and Hannah Hustad of Wayne, Mi.; and nephews: Brian (Nicole) Hustad of Collegedale, and Matthew (Gale) Hustad of Nashville. She also leaves behind two beloved great-nephews.

Tammy will be cremated according to family arrangements. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Companion Funeral Home, and she will be laid to rest at Collegedale Memorial Park.

The family wishes to thank the compassionate staff of Hospice of Chattanooga Care Center and The Health Center at Standifer Place for their dedicated care during Tammy’s final days.

Tammy’s life touched many, and though she is no longer with us, her love and memory will live on in our hearts.