Tamara Ellyn Caldwell

Tamara Ellyn Caldwell (née Schneider), affectionately known to friends as Tammye and lovingly called Jo or Auntie Jo by her family, passed away on July 29, 2026, at the age of 68.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Donnie Caldwell; her parents, Mary Lee Braasch (née Konold, formerly Schneider and Patterson), affectionately known as “CharLee,” and Casper Allen Schneider (“Al”).
Tamara is survived by her sisters, Alana Lawson and Deborah “Debi” Schneider; her brother-in-law, John Lawson, Sr.; her step-son, Chris Hargrove; her niece, Mendi Hill (Jason); her nephew, John Lawson, Jr. (Holly); and her cherished great-nephews and great-nieces, Kolby Jay Rogers, Taylor Jones, Landon Lawson, and Kendall Lawson.
Tamara’s professional career reflected both creativity and precision, spanning roles as a bookkeeper and a roof truss designer. While accomplished in her profession, she was best known for the many gifts she shared with others.
Blessed with a beautiful, clear soprano voice, Tamara’s love of music began in childhood while studying voice at Huyler Studio. Music was woven into everyday life as she, her sisters, and their mother frequently sang three-part harmony together, filling their home with song. Her passion for performing led to public appearances at an early age and later to becoming a member of Up with People, where her vibrant personality and stage presence flourished.
Throughout high school, she often starred in musicals and operettas, frequently performing in leading female roles. She later joined Sweet Adelines International, singing with both the chorus and a quartet while traveling throughout the country to perform. Her love of music remained a lifelong passion, and she faithfully shared her gift through her church choir.
Tamara also devoted countless hours to community theater through the Greene County Fine Arts Council in Paragould, Arkansas. Whether singing solos, dancing, acting, selling tickets, designing sets, constructing stage scenery, or managing financial records, she gave every production her heart and her talents.
Her gifts extended well beyond the stage. She found joy in teaching Bible verses to children, volunteered her bookkeeping skills with Habitat for Humanity, served as a regional board member for Kiwanis, and faithfully assisted with church ministries. No matter where she served, she approached every task with dedication, grace, and an unwavering servant’s heart.
Those who knew Tamara will forever remember her sparkling spirit, infectious laughter, and compassionate heart. Beneath her vibrant personality was a thoughtful woman whose deep faith, creativity, generosity, and love for others left a lasting impression on everyone blessed to know her.
Though she will be deeply missed, those who loved Tamara find comfort in knowing she is once again singing with the heavenly choir in the presence of her Savior.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 12, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. until the time of service at 6:00 p.m.
Interment will take place Thursday, August 13, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Lulu Perpetual Care Cemetery, 12282 County Road 606 Senath, MO 63876. Family and friends who wish to attend the graveside service may leave with the immediate family from the funeral home at 8:00 a.m.