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Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans posted a symbolic gesture
Friday, April 16, 2021
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Magnificent best described Tamara Smiley Hamilton, whom I knew as a friend and memoir writing student in Reston. Absorbing her loss is taking time and writing about it is impossible. She lit up the room and made you feel richer in her presence. Unique and strong, competent and kind. As her memoir leader, I and those who took classes with her remember her lyrical, poetic style and unique voice, and more about her rich life than probably many whom she met. Unforgettable was the evening she performed her "Diary of a Watts Princess" unpublished early life memoir, before a large Reston audience and in the presence of the great founder Robert E. Simon himself. He told me that Tamara had given him much to think about.
As dazzling, impressive and gifted as she was as a public person, Tamara's heart was her family: her dear life partner, husband Robert and her bevy of smart sons and increasing number of grandchildren. She seemed to fulfill those soaring expectations of her fellow migrants from the South to the West Coast. And with that ever present smile in her eyes, we knew she had found the secret to happiness. She lived in it, and though she is gone physically, she is still very much with us.
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PJ Gunter posted a condolence
Friday, September 11, 2020
Somehow I found my way through the "web" to find this Precious Jewel known as Tamara Smiley Hamilton. I hadn't heard of her. While searching for someone who is doing the Work I feel guided to do she came up on LinkedIn. Intrigued, I went to her website.
I just found out. I feel a significant sense of lost opportunity to learn I won't get the chance to be in her Presence to glean information and guidance from her wisdom. So much for my self-indulgence.
Tamara did her work. She touched lives. She touched mine and I never met her. Tamara left a legacy and planted her seed. Orchards will grow from the apples on her tree.
Thank you for sharing her with us who just became acquainted.
peace
~ pj
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PJ Gunter
Financial Well-Being Practitioner
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Constance Brigham posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 1, 2020
Decades ago at Washington High in Los Angeles, I followed you from our high school to Scripps College. Thank you for your leadership and service from the time you were an outstanding teen. Rest In Peace my sister.
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maya bernstein posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 18, 2020
In Memoriam for Tamara Hamilton
Maya Bernstein, Co-Director Certificate in Facilitation, Georgetown's Institute for Transformational Leadership
It was the final half hour of three hours of facilitation. Tamara had held the room, with her strong and steady presence, and had taught our students bravely about the necessity of naming issues of race, of facing our biases, of creating space for black voices, of facilitating with sensitivity and awareness. She modeled what she taught. It was a gift and an honor to be in her presence, to learn from her.
I had introduced her, and it was my job to close the session, to thank her. I stood in the front of the room, by her side, and asked students to reflect on what they were taking away from the session. As students shared, I synthesized their ideas, echoing back themes. After listening to a number of students talk about how they learned the importance of naming things honestly in a room, I said: “yes, part of our responsibility as the facilitator is to call a spade a spade, to name what others might be afraid to name.” Immediately I felt Tamara’s presence change beside me. And I felt a shift in the energy of the room. It was subtle, as many were ignorant, as I was - but I knew something had happened. It was silent.
And then -
Tamara put her hand on my shoulder. She stood strong beside me, with her hand on my shoulder, in silence. And then she said: “Maya, I know that you are not a racist. I know that you do not mean harm. And so I am going to use this moment to teach you something. My heart is racing. Because I am the guest-speaker here, and this is your class. And I do not want to embarrass you. But I want you to learn.” My heart was pounding too. But I stood and I listened as she talked about the expression “call a spade a spade,” as she educated me. In front of a room of 30 participants, who looked at me as their teacher. And she managed to do it in a way that we all learned. Not only did we learn about the racist undertones of that specific phrase, but we learned about graciousness and courage, we learned what it means to stand up for what you believe even when it’s uncomfortable and embarrassing, we learned what great facilitation looks like - kind and firm - for the sake of a purpose greater than any of our feelings in the moment, though she held me so gently, so graciously.
It was one of the most profound learning moments of my life.
I will never forget her.
I will strive to stand strong as she did, to stand up for what is right, and to gently and bravely nudge this world, person by person, to do better.
I will continue to tell this story, to my children, to my students, to my friends, with the hope that they too will feel a spark of Tamara’s spirit, and that this spark will shine in them, and ignite others.
May her memory be a blessing.
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Tribute Store
Tuesday, July 28, 2020
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Paul E. White uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 23, 2020
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On March 1st, in one of the last big gatherings before COVID-19 shutdown, I invited my dear friend and Toastmaster colleague Tamara Hamilton to present at a Burgay Continuing Education Workshop. She gave an excellent presentation on the Accredited Speaker Program. Tamara was radiant, with a great message, and on top of her game in every way. The audience was fascinated with "her story." Afterward, my wife Clelia and I took a photo with Tamara. Little did we know that it would be our last. Tamara and I walked many miles together in public speaking. I coached her in her Jamaica vacation speech through her journey to becoming an Accredited Speaker and Distinguished Toastmaster. We shared several Toastmasters Clubs - StorySmiths, the Burgay club, and GUTS. We did some joint presentations and workshops and Tamara was invaluable in helping me on my birthday in 2016 when my mentor, Tony Buzan, received the Golden Gavel Award from Toastmasters International at the 2016 Convention. I was asked to be a speaker at her graduation celebration from George Mason University. Tamara asked that I give a very specific speech - one that she loved. What an honor to present with Dutch Martin as MC and Jim Dooley as the other requested storyteller. Tamara gave the most magnificent tribute I've ever witnessed - talking to her childhood playmates, high school and college classmates, NEA and other professional colleagues, and to family and other friends. Her poise and grace were spellbinding. The world is less bright without Tamara's presence, but I am sure that heaven is a lot brighter.
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Linda Callender uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, July 15, 2020
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Tamara was a friend of 30 years, a colleague, and source of support and encouragement. She was a calming force and simultaneously a whirlwind. She had energy, vision, and a profound understanding of people and situations. She was a writer, speaker, teacher, student, mother and wife. But so important to me, she was a dear friend whose memory I will carry in my heart.
Our sincere condolences to Robert and Family.
Linda Callender and Richard Isaac
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Mark C. Hopson lit a candle
Tuesday, July 14, 2020
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A wonderful smile, energy and presence. We met briefly but Tamara made a lasting impression. We talked scholarship and consciousness-raising. I remain inspired. May God bless Tamara's family with peace, strength and unity.
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Michael A. Walker-Jones, Ed.D. lit a candle
Monday, July 13, 2020
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Michael A. Walker-Jones, Ed.D. Posted Jul 13, 2020 at 4:57 PM
Tamara in 1982 contacted me as a UniServ staffer. I had requested to be a trainer in Collective Bargaining Cadre for over a year and no one had contacted. She asked about my background. We shared a philosophy there was no such thing as a "non-bargaining state." Tamara was most intrigued that I was also a certified Arbitrator, with AAA and a bargaining/conflict resolution specialist. She took me under her wing and guided my NEA training career for the next 20 yr. I will miss you my friend.
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sylvia2rob@gmail.com lit a candle
Saturday, July 11, 2020
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Tamara was a beacon of light and love in the world. She shared herself, her wisdom and her indomitable spirit with all who were blessed to know her. We will be forever grateful to have been in that number. She will be sorely missed. Deepest sympathies to Robert and all of the family. Sending love and prayers for God’s comfort and grace at this difficult time. John and Sylvia Robinson
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Willie, Vivian, Chad and Kiva Conner planted a tree in memory of Tamara Hamilton
Friday, July 10, 2020
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With loving memories of "Tamara Hamilton", Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Bronwyn Detalla uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 9, 2020
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In 2008, my life was turned upside-down. Then came Tamara, my sweet angel. She reminded me of God's promise by giving me a journal after she heard I gave my husband a gift of life (kidney). Through her mentoring and nurturing I was able to navigate through life's challenges. Fast forward June 2020, on the day she passed, she still managed to touch my heart and soul. "Go slow to go fast, Bronwyn." "Recognize the power of a pause." Tamara never failed to check on me over the years and connected me with people and events to be a better version of myself. I have been so blessed to have her as a mentor, a friend, and confidant. I am grateful for the years I had her in my life. My only regret is I should have come to visit her sooner to see her beautiful smile and warm embrace before she went to heaven. The promise of seeing her again gives me comfort. Rest in peace, my dear Tamara...until we meet again.
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Bronwyn and Douglas Payne planted a tree in memory of Tamara Hamilton
Thursday, July 9, 2020
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To Robert, Mossi, Maso, and Mikhail. As you grieve know that we are remembering you and honoring the memory of "Tamara Hamilton". Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Jo Ann Skinner posted a condolence
Thursday, July 9, 2020
I became friends with Tamara when we attended the George Mason University Coaching for Leadership and Well-Being program. We would go out to lunch in Reston after that and she encouraged me to join Toastmasters. I was lucky enough to attend the reading of her memoir at Lake Anne about 5 years ago.
I will always remember Tamara's beautiful smile, her sense of humor and her generous spirit.
My condolences to her family.
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Diane Baumgartner posted a condolence
Wednesday, July 8, 2020
I didn't know Tamara well, but am shocked to hear of her passing and sad that I will not have the chance to know her better. My heartfelt condolences to her blood, professional, and Toastmasters families.
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Ernestine posted a symbolic gesture
Wednesday, July 8, 2020
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My fondest memory of Tamara was a 1-1 personal conversation we had about me. A few days later she gave me a green card that read, your old life was a frantic running from silence. The speechless full moon comes out now. -Rumi, tr. Coleman Barks
She summed up what I could not. I knew then she was no ordinary soul. She knew how to give you back to yourself, she helped me find within what I thought was missing.
Thanks, Tamara.
Don't you know we love you sweet lady.
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Dayton and Angela Jones purchased flowers
Wednesday, July 8, 2020
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Dayton and Angela Jones
purchased the Beautiful in Blue for the family of Tamara Hamilton.
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Iris Taylor lit a candle
Wednesday, July 8, 2020
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Members of District 27 Toastmasters express our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. We grieve with you and are here to support you during this difficult time. We will miss her presence and the many gifts that she shared with us. We will never forget her!
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Tribute Store
Wednesday, July 8, 2020
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Beautiful in Blue was purchased and a memorial tree was planted for the family of Tamara Hamilton.
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In loving memory of Tamara Smiley Hamilton, a multi-talented trailblazer. We will miss you! Always in our hearts, District 27 Toastmasters
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Betty Maxwell-Baylis posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 7, 2020
To my dearest friend William (Butch) Smiley & family,
I was so sorry to hear about the sudden passing of your beautiful sister Tamara.
I know how close you were to her William and has left your heart broken.
If only there was something that I could say or do to some way express my thoughts
and help to comfort you. But just perhaps, just knowing that I care will help in some
small way to ease the great loss you bear. May God put his loving arms around you William
and all the family and walk with you during this difficult time. Your sister was an extraordinary
lady and God has now another Angel. She will live in your hearts forever.
May Tamara RIP
God Bless you All
Betty Maxwell-Baylis
Toronto, Ontario
Canada
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Andrew Della Rocca posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 7, 2020
Tamara and I were classmates at the School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution. She was a coach for my daughter, for my wife, and a mentor for me. When I think of Tamara I think of her warmth and kindness. It is difficult to write this now as I am overcome with emotion at the news of her passing. We spoke just the other week. Now that I think about it, I am so very grateful that we did. She was a wonderful human being. My condolences to her family.
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Alexis Holmes posted a symbolic gesture
Tuesday, July 7, 2020
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Tamara is a beautiful soul and her reach knew no bounds. She influenced me in ways that I wish I had expressed better to her. She was an extraordinary woman and role model, and will not be forgotten.
Gloria L. Brown posted a condolence
Monday, July 6, 2020
While I sit here with a heavy heart, I say farewell to you, my dear friend, colleague, mentor, powerful woman of wisdom, a woman of great faith with a true love for God and mankind Tamara Smiley Hamilton. I am grateful God connected us when he did, you've made a huge difference in my life and for that I thank you. Yes, I will miss our hour-long conversations about the state of the world, humanity, the love we shard for our families, and they for us, the laugher, empowering stories, strategy sessions about how we could make a difference. Well, my friend, you have indeed left a mark on this world, created a legacy, and changed the trajectory of many lives,. I loved the way you lived your life. Dedicated, compassionate, loving, and, yet intentional. Thank you for believing and loving me, at first sight, many years ago. Sending love and prayers to your husband, amazing sons, grandchildren, and other family members, your community, and all you've serviced. May God strengthen them during this difficult time, Tamara Smiley Hamiton, Rest Easy my Sister! I'll see you on the other side. I Love You!
Gloria L. Brown
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Kate K posted a condolence
Monday, July 6, 2020
I joined one of Tamara’s seminars just two weeks ago and was inspired by her grace and leadership facilitating a multi-race/age/gender/location group to a thoughtful conversation in such a difficult time. I was looking forward to other sessions and recommended her to my firm as a resource, so was terribly shocked to see this news. I can only wish that in an hour I might have such an impact on a person — and clearly Tamara had an immense impact on many, many people over her impressive career and family life. My thoughts are with her family and friends who knew her best. I wish you all peace and happy memories.
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Al Tony Gilmore posted a condolence
Monday, July 6, 2020
Tamara was one for the ages, and she now belongs to the ages. An extraordinary human being
who had the audacity to believe that there was good in most people, and that differences could
be reconciled.
She deeply believed in tomorrow ...
May my friend, colleague, confidant, and former student rest in eternal peace. She will be missed,
and may her family find peace and strength in knowing that this period of grief will soon give way
to a lifetime of wonderful memories.
Al-Tony Gilmore
Bethesda, Maryland 20817
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Monique Wiley-Crawford lit a candle
Monday, July 6, 2020
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My sincere condolences to the Smiley Hamilton family.
Tamara’s impact, wisdom, & light will never dim in my life. Though we did not speak frequently, she has been & will be forever a part of my existence.
Tamara recently completed a Sharing Inspiration Zoom session on Resilience for Goodwill of Greater Washington by my invitation on May 21, 2020. I thought of her for this online community event because of her masterful abilities to touch hearts, to impart knowledge & wisdom, & to simply be Tamara!
She was my Executive Coach back in 2015 at a time in my life when I was changing careers. She was instrumental in helping me set my new Career Direction & in creating a vision board for my future.
I will always cherish my memories of Tamara.
Also, I have included a few of my "go to" biblical verses:
2 Corinthians 5:8, "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord".
Psalm 46:1, " God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."
John 11:25-26, Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die. And whoever lives by believing in me will never die".
May the God of peace & comfort continue to watch over The Smiley Hamilton Family as well as the many friends & family who loved and will cherish our Sister, Tamara.
Deaconess Monique Wiley-Crawford of Washington, DC by way of Grambling, LA
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Denice Hinden lit a candle
Monday, July 6, 2020
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I had the honor of knowing Tamara the last 9 years while being coaches for the Goodwill International Executive Development Program. Only a few weeks ago, as that opportunity was wrapping up, she reached out to me to let me know about her public coaching group exploring race. I told her about the small global group of coaches I was co-convening to write a few articles about antiracism for coaches. She agreed to join us and I attended her public group. Connecting with her in both places was an amazing learning experience for which I will always be grateful. My heart hurts with Tamara's passing. May her memory always be for a blessing. May your family's memories be a source of strength.
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Beverly Harris posted a condolence
Monday, July 6, 2020
May your many fond memories of Tamara bring you comfort during this time of loss. With my most sincere sympathy, Beverly Harris (student in her writing class at RCC)
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Traci posted a condolence
Monday, July 6, 2020
Tamara brought such light and wisdom and grace to her work. She began working with members of our team almost 6 months ago and worked her brand of awesome magic, changing attitudes and hearts for the better. I just talked to her on June 26th about a new project and we had an amazing conversation. What a force for good. Dr. Angelou's poem "When Great Trees Fall" certainly is apt. My deepest condolences to the family. May you find comfort in the memories and strength in the knowledge that we each are better - and can and will be more - because she is existed.
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Darlene Smucny, Ph.D. posted a condolence
Monday, July 6, 2020
Tamara was my Leadership Coach in the Leadership Legacy Program at George Mason University. She was an amazing coach, leader, colleague and friend. Her positive leadership and confidence were inspiring. Thank you, Tamara, for our wonderful conversations! Sincere condolences to her family and friends and colleagues.
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Ingabire diane uploaded photo(s)
Monday, July 6, 2020
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I was honored to have met you! I remember her visiting us in Rwanda. you inspired me in so many ways! you helped me to get my bachelor's degree! learn more about leadership and working in teams.
I am forever grateful to me and my family.
Our last conversation was on the 27th, as I went to bed tired you told me to call you first thing in the morning!
We shall meet again by God's grace in Jesus' name.
Love,
Isimbi girls
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Daphne Jefferson planted a tree in memory of Tamara Hamilton
Monday, July 6, 2020
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Daphne Jefferson lit a candle
Monday, July 6, 2020
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I had the honor of getting to know Tamara during the 2019 Georgetown ITL Network conference. She was a light to our coaching community. Her generosity of spirit will be missed. My deepest condolences and prayers go out to Tamara's family for the loss of this amazing woman..
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Vicki Klopsch lit a candle
Monday, July 6, 2020
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I was honored to have met you, Tamara. Thank you for your positive energy and outlook on the world around you. You inspired me.
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Myra Burnett posted a condolence
Monday, July 6, 2020
Tamara was my professional coach In 2014-2015 When I was appointed interim provost of Spelman College. She gave me much more than I ever could have paid for, all with a loving and generous spirit. God blessed her life and we bless her memory!
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Kathleen Lyons posted a condolence
Sunday, July 5, 2020
I was one of many hundreds — if not thousands — of people whose lives were touched by her in an indelible way. She supported me personally and helped me be successful in my work. I’ve never met anyone like her, and that’s because there is no one like her. I will never forget her smile and counsel. My deepest condolences to her beloved family.
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Demetrice Davis uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, July 5, 2020
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I am so grateful to have been blessed with the opportunity to glean knowledge, wisdom, skills and understanding from Tamara’s graceful sharing of her gifts. She touched the lives of an immeasurable number of people throughout the world. May God be with the family and friends of such an amazing woman of peace.
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Cory Wofford posted a condolence
Friday, July 3, 2020
I am one of many staff members at the National Education Association who benefited from Tamara's skill, talent, and generosity, when she was a colleague and even after she retired. Like many, the news of her transition was a shock. Once the shock subsided, I've decided that they best thing for me to do is to hold on to the memories and to continue to pass on to others all that she shared with me.
To the entire Hamilton family, especially Mikhail, thank you for sharing Tamara with us. My prayer for the family is that you are continuously surrounded by love now, and in the years to come, as you navigate the journey of grief. Tamara was, and remains, a blessing.
In Love and With Deepest Sympathy,
Cory Wofford
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Darlene Carver posted a symbolic gesture
Friday, July 3, 2020
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Tamara and I began working together with a new Cohort of future speakers in March of this year. I had known her for years before, but in January when she found out I was looking for an Associate Dean for the National Speakers Association-DC Speaker Academy, she stepped right in. I thought I would have to "sell" her on the value she could add, but she was already committed. Just the morning of the day she passed, we had emailed about preparing for the next meeting on July 11. The shock was immense when I found out at 11:30 pm about her passing. In the short time she worked with the Academy, she impacted each of us in different ways and we will always treasure her memory. I feel blessed to have worked with such a talented, thoughtful and caring individual. Rest in peace, my friend.
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Ivana Miranda posted a symbolic gesture
Friday, July 3, 2020
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My first encounter with Tamara was through District 27 Toastmasters. She was giving a speech called, "Beyonce On the Beach". It was not a speech, but an EXPERIENCE. She quickly became a source of personal inspiration for me. AUDACIOUS, TENACIOUS, EMPOWERED, YET GRACIOUS is how she will forever be remembered. She always had insightful wisdom, particularly for women in leadership roles. She was the featured speaker for the DC Metro Region of Federally Employed Women's holiday gathering hosted at the US Patent & Trademark Office several years ago and has graced the stage of so many other events. She was in the beginning stages of becoming an accredited speaker and we were honored to be part of the process. One of the last times we spoke was during the After-After Party for a Zoom Old School Throwback event. At that time, she was learning how to make masks and wanted to send out several to us. (So warm, thoughtful, and kind.) I also had the privilege of attending her virtual celebration after she recently completed her Master's degree. She made me feel special and I know I was not the only one. Her recent project to empower young ladies in Africa was a joy we all felt when she told stories about them. Thank you, Tamara for the beauty, the affirmation, and the love. Take your bow and receive your final REWARD. Rest in peace, rest in heaven, rest in power. ⚘⚘⚘
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Catherine Cruveillier lit a candle
Friday, July 3, 2020
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I am very sad to learn about Tamara's passing. I am a Georgetown Coach who had the privilege and joy of interacting frequently with Tamara on deep subjects. She and I had a deep connection, also as friends, even though we would not see each other often. I participated in person in a number of small group meetings she organized to discuss diversity and inclusion. She was a real leader and influencer, particularly in that area. I also remember when we went to visit Mount Vernon with a small group of friends - a great day and fun experience, as she added so much to the visit with her own knowledge and warm, solar, presence!
I will miss her.
My heartfelt condolences to her loved ones,
Catherine Cruveillier
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Deiadre Rauch posted a condolence
Friday, July 3, 2020
I am a Georgetown Leadership Coach who learned from Tamara in many ways. She was such a beacon of goodness and joy in our community, and she will be missed by so many. She was bold and courageously authentic in her quest to speak her voice in her work. I have been, and will continue to be inspired by her spirit. My sympathy goes out to her family.
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John I. Wilson posted a symbolic gesture
Friday, July 3, 2020
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I had the honor of working closely with Tamara at NEA during my entire tenure as executive director. We were not just co-workers, but friends and champions of creating one of the best places to work in America. She served as my executive counsel as we tackled morale, inclusion, staff development, and advancement, but most importantly, supporting a dedicated staff to achieve the mission and vision of the NEA. She was passionate, poetic, and persistent in bringing out the best in her colleagues. She will be missed. I will miss our conversations and dreams of a better world for all. We did a lot planning and plotting.
To Robert and her sons, she loved you more than anything. She was so proud of your accomplishments and your character. You will not only have the memories of her, but you will have a guardian angel encouraging, counseling, and steering you to greatness. Continue her legacy. There is much to be done to complete her work. Her NEA family grieves with you today, but continues her work tomorrow.
John I. Wilson
Retired Executive Director, NEA
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Dianna Escobar lit a candle
Friday, July 3, 2020
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Thank you my friend for all the moments we shared. I still remember when we yoke about being in the sea of forgetfulness when it had passed to long time from calling one another. My trip to Rwanda among your company has been memorable. I know I will see you again. There will never be anyone like you. Love and remembering you always ..........Dianna Escobar
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Anton Vanterpool II, DTM posted a condolence
Friday, July 3, 2020
Tamara shared her journey to Toastmasters Accredited Speaker achievement. I prayed for her from the back of the room as she presented her speech at the 2018 Toastmasters International Convention. She told me before the announcement of 2018 Accredited Speakers that she would take the stage as the first African American woman to receive this honor. Thank you Tamara for being an answer to prayer.
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Toni Roberts posted a symbolic gesture
Thursday, July 2, 2020
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On behalf of all of us at HeartMath, please know that we deeply feel your loss of such a vibrant, kind, determined and loving person. Tamara touched our hearts with her inner and outer beauty--all in living color! Tamara was only here one time, and many of us have stayed in touch with her--and we will never forget her. The planet will never be the same!
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Evelyn Giebel lit a candle
Thursday, July 2, 2020
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I first met Tamara in Germany when she taught in DODDS. I did not take long to see her exceptional talents. We arranged her coming to Washington and joining the NEA Internship Program, and her gifts as a group facilitator, poet and healer became known throughout the organization.
A rare angel,now, who has truly earned her wings.
My sincere condolences to Robert and the family.
Evelyn Temple Giebel
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Donna Gold lit a candle
Thursday, July 2, 2020
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Her light will burn brightly even now since she touched many lives with her strong spirit and intelligence. Thank you, Tamara for your wonderful contribution to our world. May your family be enfolded in loving, healing arms...
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Frances A. Beard planted a tree in memory of Tamara Hamilton
Thursday, July 2, 2020
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Tamara's roots run deep. Her good work and spirit will continue to flourish in us all and in many circles as this tree does. My sincere sympathy, Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Frances Beard uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 2, 2020
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Tamara used her short time on this side of heaven to the fullest. But it seemed she had so much more to offer. I find comfort in knowing that her influence in the personal lives of so many and in several professional arenas will continue to drive the quest for greater self-fulfillment and communal harmony.
I worked with and got to know Tamara in our almost 20-year career with the National Education Association. Although we have been largely out of touch for several years, I have followed her work as an indpendent consultant. I now treasure a virtual reconnection with Tamara less than two weeks before her passing. Tamara was in her usual stellar role as a dynamic facilitator. More than 60 of us engaged in honest dialogue during a "Making Space for Race" session designed and delivered by Tamara (planned for Tuesdays in June). I was so eager to follow up with a more personal message to commend her for this important work. Sadly, my procrastination now haunts me.
The photo I share of Tamara and me was at a National OD Network meeting about 20 years ago. Tamara had submitted my name for an award; I humbly agreed and we were celebrating. Tamara was one of my strongest supporters in my early years of becoming a parent, extending motherly support to my young daughter. For this also she was well qualified. Tamara was devoted to her sons and to her dear Robert. Later, she was the doting grandmother. The family Tamara loved so well will remain in my heart and prayers. Rest in Peace, Tamara.
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Nora Burns posted a condolence
Thursday, July 2, 2020
Joyful, loving, brilliant, passionate, resilient, compassionate - the words I use to describe Tamara still do not do justice to her exceptional spirit, exuberant smile, incredible mind, and generous heart. We met through the National Speakers Association. She joined in when I created a morning writing group and I am so incredibly thankful for that time with her. One on one discussions with her on zoom for the past several years were always rich with insight, stories that put her love of her family and community on full display, and her energizing spirit. While I, like many, remain in disbelief that she is gone - I am thankful she was able to receive and celebrate her 2nd Master's Degree before she departed - that family and friends were able to celebrate her one final time before this goodbye that has come too soon. She has touched so many hearts across the world. Hoping her memorial will be streamed so we can participate from afar. Sending love from Denver across the miles to all who feel the loss of this amazing woman.
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Sharon Harrington uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 2, 2020
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When I got the news, after being frozen in my chair, I grabbed my cell and lamented of the missed call and text from her a few weeks ago where she said “I just called to say hello.” I was so anxious to hear her voice when I called her right back but then she missed the call. We texted with a promise to connect. My heart aches. My schedule was so consumed over the last two Tuesday evenings. I ensured I cleared my schedule not to miss this week’s offering of The Resilience Beat. My heart aches. My solace is in the many memories I have of her.
My mind raced to the hours we sat on her porch on a Saturday morning where I heard the incredible stories of her childhood and how this heroic work became the typology of her life. I think of her birthday party at her home with many other Tamara admirers adorned in our finest heritage regalia. I’ve been reading the countless emails she sent me to encourage me in my spiritual journey. I’ve replayed the songs she sent for me. I reread the articles she told me to read. I searched all the emails where she shared her events, testified of her visions that came to pass, offered opportunities to travel abroad, declared affirmation of greatness to come. After that, I went back through the text messages and smiled when I saw my contact photo of her that she shared many years ago and I share with you here.
To her precious family, I leave you with what you already know as lifted from the so appropriate passage in the Bible in Proverbs 31…”Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.” I’m grateful be part of a community who found that virtuous woman. I am better because of it. Rest in peace Queen!
Sharon Harrington
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Tribute Store
Thursday, July 2, 2020
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Vivid Recollections was purchased for the family of Tamara Hamilton.
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With Deepest Sympathy. Tony, Jim and All of NTEU
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Edwin Horsley planted a tree in memory of Tamara Hamilton
Thursday, July 2, 2020
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Edwin Horsley posted a condolence
Thursday, July 2, 2020
Tamara Hamilton was a blessing to me and so many others during her life. She helped me secure a position with NEA and she coached and mentored me, even after she retired. Tamara was often the moral compass for people who needed guidance personally or professionally. I thank Jesus Christ for connecting me to Tamara.
To the Hamilton Family: Tamara loved you all deeply and she was proud that you are her family. May the comfort and peace of Jesus Christ be a healing balm to you in the days ahead.
Edwin Horsley/ NEA Intern 1997
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Marquesa Pettway uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 2, 2020
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Tamara Hamilton was a treasured member, friend, and fellow speaker in our community. The news spread of her loss and the outpouring shows how much she was loved. She inspired us, brainstormed how to change the world with us, and shared her work in the world with us.
Recently, inspired by the Black Movement, Tamara decided to create space to talk about race and she planned to run it every Tuesday.
BlackNSA hosted a “share how Tamara impacted you” Zoom the day after she passed on a Tuesday to honor her and the love shown was beautiful. If you’d like the video, please message me. Her clients, colleagues, coaches, friends, mentees, all poured their hards out to share their love. What an inspiring legacy, Tamara will be missed by never forgotten.
The National Speakers Association, BlackNSA, Power Women of NSA, NSA-DC chapter, BlackNSA Mastermind
We’re praying for you family and offer our deepest condolences.
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Karen Snyder uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 2, 2020
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I had the honor of meeting the Hamilton family at Tamara's 63rd birthday celebration and oh, what a lovely celebration that was! Robert, I remember a delightful dinner with you and Tamara at the NSA Convention. I met Tamara many years ago when she joined National Speakers Association. Tamara built me up, like she did for everyone in her path. We were able to refer clients to one another and had the pleasure of working with her in August 2018 when she led a retreat and I co-facilitated. We had planned to go to the stitchery convention in Northern Virginia in March and then all plans went awry. I enjoyed building our businesses, talking about race and laughing and hugging with her.
Tamara's love of her family, of Robert, of her sons and her daughter in law were deep. She loved and kept sacred her Fridays with the grandchildren. She loved cooking for and with all of you. I wish you peace and love and so many happy memories in the days ahead. Thank you for sharing Tamara with us.
Karen Snyder
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Cydney Shields Ferrell uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 2, 2020
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Tamara touched so many lives, with her warm smile and caring ways. She was always willing to mentor, guide and share information. She poured so much into life of others and she was a blessing and a gift.
Everyone she met she made feel special like at her own birthday parties where she treated us like it was our party.
She loved and always shared fondly about her family and her husband. I loved her fun-filled stories.
Even in her passing, she is still a role model for how to treat others and how to support one another from a smile, to being present, to a text, a call or some information. God gave us all a gift in having the honor of knowing her and being in her company. She showed me what a Godly walk should be like, not just in words but thru actions.
If you told her something you wanted to do, she did not ask why don’t you or why haven’t you. She asked how can I help you and than would encourage you. I know because she encouraged me about resuming being active with Toastmasters and my writing
.To her wonderful family, thank you for sharing her with us
Cydney Shields-Ferrell
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Irlene Terrell uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 2, 2020
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Tamara and I were classmates at Charles Drew Junior HIgh School in Los Angeles, California. We were assigned to many of the same classes each semester throughout the three years. I knew Tamara was special even at that young age. I wondered what ever became of her and what professional road she traveled. I was very happy when I found her on Facebook several years ago and we reconnected. I was very proud of her many accomplishments and I was sadden to hear of passing. I send condolences to her family and peace be with you.
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The family of Tamara Smiley Hamilton uploaded a photo
Wednesday, July 1, 2020
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The family of Tamara Smiley Hamilton uploaded a photo
Wednesday, July 1, 2020
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Adams-Green Funeral Home & Crematory
721 Elden Street | Herndon, VA 20170
P: (703) 437-1764 or (703) 471-4090 | E: bill@adamsgreen.com
