Tammy Jo Olney
Tammy Jo Olney, age 59, of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 3, 2024. Born on October 14, 1964, in Eaton Rapids, Tammy was the beloved daughter of Thomas and Alma (Peckham) Brooks. She grew up in Eaton Rapids, where she excelled academically, graduating as salutatorian from Eaton Rapids High School in 1982. Tammy furthered her education at Davenport College, earning an associate degree in accounting.
On January 9, 1984, Tammy began her illustrious 40-year career at Farm Credit, starting as a related services secretary. Through her dedication and hard work, she rose to the position of senior loan accountant, retiring shortly before her passing on September 30, 2024.
In 1985, Tammy married her soulmate, Robert Olney, and together they built a beautiful life, raising two daughters. Following the heartbreaking loss of her youngest daughter, Veronica, to cancer, Tammy channeled her grief into action, organizing “relay” rummage sales to support the American Cancer Society. Over 15 years, with the help of family and friends, she raised nearly $30,000 in Veronica’s memory.
Tammy’s love of dance was evident throughout her life. Starting as a student at the age of three at Marceil’s School of Dance, she went on to teach tap and jazz at Lisa’s Island Dance Centre. She danced for 55 years, attended countless dance conventions, and helped run music for annual dance recitals, a true testament to her passion for the art.
In recent years, Tammy cherished spending time with her grandchildren, often visiting zoos and aquariums, and traveling across the country to cheer on her great-nephew at his college football games.
Tammy is preceded in death by her cherished daughter, Veronica Olney; brother, Tom Brooks; father, Thomas Brooks; and her in-laws, Thomas and Mable (Bursley) Olney.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 39 years, Robert Olney; loving daughter, Brooke (James) Vredenburg; precious grandchildren, Veronica and Wilhelm Vredenburg; her dear mother, Alma Weber; and her “son from another mother,” Austyn Platte, and numerous nieces and nephews. Tammy will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her kindness and generosity.
A memorial service to honor Tammy’s life will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Robins United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids, MI. Visitation took place at the funeral home on Friday, October 11, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., and again one hour prior to the service on Saturday.
For those wishing to make a memorial contribution, donations may be made to Make-A-Wish Michigan, 25 Michigan St. NE #1200, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 in Tammy’s memory. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.