Tamar MacFadyen Obituary
Tamar Hetzel MacFadyen, affectionately known as Tammy, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2023, in East Providence, Rhode Island. Born on July 8, 1940, in Kane, Pennsylvania, she lived a life full of love, laughter, and kindness, leaving a profound and lasting impact on everyone she met. Her passing was due to the effects of dementia, a battle she fought with grace and courage.
Tammy was the beloved sister of Joan Schmidt, the late Robert Hetzel, and the late Donald Hetzel; and sister-in-law to Fred Schmidt, Patricia Hetzel and Maria Hetzel. She was preceded in death by her dear husband, Richard MacFadyen. As a mother, she was a beacon of unconditional love and support to her son, Christopher Brolin and his wife, Mary; her son, Kevin Brolin and his wife, Dawn; and her daughter, Jennifer Duchesne and her husband, Mark. Tammy was also the cherished grandmother to Benjamin and Matthew Duchesne, and Emily, Kaz, Alessandra, and Siena Brolin.
A graduate of the University of Connecticut Business School in 1962, Tammy utilized her education in a career that spanned over 30 years. For two decades, she served as the Manager of the New England Joint Board/Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers Union Office, where she was a respected and admired leader. She then spent 10 years as the Secretary Treasurer of the Connecticut State AFL-CIO, where she continued to make significant contributions.
Tammy's love for nature was evident in her fascination with owls, a passion she shared with her grandchildren. She took great pleasure in being in the company of those who could make her laugh, her sense of humor being one of her most endearing qualities. Known as the greatest grandmother ever, she showered her grandchildren with love, wisdom, and the occasional owl-themed gift.
Tammy's life was characterized by her dedication to her family, her commitment to her work, and her love for the natural world. Her resilience in the face of adversity, her unwavering positivity, and her infectious laughter will be missed by all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her loved ones and in the legacy she leaves behind through her work and her family.
We will forever cherish the memories of Tammy's laughter, her wisdom, and the love she gave so freely. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her life, remembering the remarkable woman she was. She has left an indelible mark on our hearts, and her legacy will continue to live on through the lives of those she touched. Tamar’s family will receive relatives and friends on Monday, July 10, 2023 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St., Willimantic. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.
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