Tamara Jean Harper

Tamara Jean Harper, 83, of Fairfield, Ohio, passed away on Friday, November 6, 2026, at the StoryPoint Senior Living Facility. Born on February 3, 1943, in Zanesville, Ohio, to James and Betty (McHenry) Malone. Tamara lived a life marked by fierce independence, deep sentiment, and an appreciation for the people, memories, and simple wonders that made life meaningful. She lived life on her own terms finding beauty in the smallest details; a dark star-filled sky, the companionship of animals, or the water she loved so much. As a longtime swim instructor, she shared that love with others, offering patience and encouragement as they learned.

Tamara’s curiosity reached across generations. She had a passion for world history and spent countless hours tracing her family’s genealogy, preserving the connections between those who came before her and those who would follow. To her, the past held stories worth knowing and memories worth keeping. Her own story now becomes a cherished part of that family history, carried forward by those who knew and loved her.

A homemaker and loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Tamara leaves behind her daughters, Deborah (Thomas) Moyers, Alissa (Brian) Pease; her grandchildren, Heath (Joana) Garber, Abby Garber, Jack Pease, Matthew Pease, and Grace Pease; and her great-grandchildren, Clayton White, John Garber, and Eleanor Garber. She is also survived by a sister-in-law, Martha Davis, along with cousins, nieces, and a nephew who will cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Phillip D. Harper.

Her family will remember her strength, sentimental spirit, and the many ways she made her life uniquely her own. In the stories they share, the family history she so carefully gathered, and the small, beautiful moments that bring her to mind, Tamara will remain close to those she leaves behind.

A small service, with Mister Bill Meaige officiating, will be held for family and friends at 12 noon on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at BOLIN-DIERKUS FUNERAL HOME, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE, OH. Burial to follow at Zanesville Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Muskingum County Animal Shelter, 1430 Newark Road, Zanesville, Ohio 43701.

To send a note of condolence or share memories of Tamara, please visit www.bolin-dierkesfuneralhome.co