Tammy L Williams

Tammy was born on February 20, 1969, in Chicago Heights, Illinois, and grew up in Park Forest, Illinois. On May 25, 2026, she passed away at Rush Oak Park Hospital after a five-year battle with Stage 4 breast cancer. She fought with incredible courage, unwavering determination, and a positivity that never faded, even in the face of overwhelming challenges. Until the very end, Tammy refused to let cancer define her or diminish her hope. While cancer may have taken her life, it never took her spirit.

Tammy was strong, stubborn in the best possible way, endlessly creative, and always knew how to bring fun and laughter into the lives of those around her. If she set her mind to something, there was little that could stand in her way.

After graduating from high school, Tammy followed her dreams and moved to the East Coast to pursue a singing career. Music was one of her first loves, and she shared her talent by performing throughout the East Coast. One of the highlights of her musical journey was appearing on Showtime at the Apollo, a moment that reflected both her talent and her willingness to fearlessly chase her dreams.

Eventually, Tammy returned to Chicago and attended college, but life had an even greater purpose waiting for her. When she became a mother, she discovered the role she was born to play.

Her four children—Christopher, Corinne, CJ, and Chloe—became the center of her world and her greatest source of pride and joy. Being their mother wasn't simply a title; it was her passion, her purpose, and her greatest accomplishment. She loved fiercely, supported wholeheartedly, and devoted herself completely to her children. Everything she did was rooted in her love for them.

Tammy had a special way of making memories wherever she went, but perhaps nowhere was she happier than at the beach. She loved the sound of the waves, the warmth of the sun, and the feeling of sand beneath her feet. A day at the beach was her idea of perfection. She could sit there for hours, completely at peace, soaking in the beauty around her. Those who knew her can easily picture her there now—smiling, relaxed, and happy.

Tammy leaves behind her beloved children, Christopher, Corinne, CJ, and Chloe; her sister, Renee Wheeler, her brother, Kenrick (Kenny) Wheeler, and a host of aunts, uncles & cousins. She was preceded in death by her mom, Lorraine Leche Wheeler, and her father, Allen Wheeler.

A private memorial service will be held in September near New Orleans where Tammy will be laid to rest w/her mom and dad at St. Peter’s Cemetery.

We’d like to extend our deepest gratitude to RUSH MD Anderson Cancer Center in Chicago and the dedicated oncology team. Thank you to Dr. Melody Cobleigh, the infusion nurses, and the entire support staff for the exceptional care, compassion, and kindness shown to Tammy throughout her treatment. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tammy’s memory to RUSH MD Anderson Cancer Center in Chicago.

Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that Tammy's legacy lives on in the people she loved and the memories she created. We will miss her every day, but we will carry her with us always—in every song that moves us, every moment of courage we find within ourselves, and every visit to the beach where we feel a little closer to her.