Tam was born on January 24, 1960, in Thorsby, Al. She graduated from Thorsby High School and received her Bachelor’s degree from Auburn University, where she was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, followed by a Master of Education from The University of Montevallo. Tam taught first grade for over 25 years, most of which were at Oak Mountain Elementary, and she loved teaching children to read. Tam was known for always having a smile on her face.
Tam was the proud mother of Kylee McGowan (Jay), and she adored being Shug to her grandchildren, Reed and Molly McGowan. Everyone who met Shug knew how much she loved her family!
Tam loved flowers and enjoyed gardening, but most of all, she loved Jesus. Her family will cherish her memory, but more importantly, they rest assured knowing Tam is face to face with her Savior. She was predeceased by her father, Randal Marcus, and mother, Thomasine Johnson.
A visitation will be held at Southern Heritage Funeral Home on June 25, 2026 between 4pm and 6pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations and gifts be made to Compassion International.
