Tammy Raines Dean

Tammy Raines Dean, 55, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away May 11, 2015. She was born April 24, 1960, in Little Rock, Arkansas, to J. W. ‘Buddy' and Ruby Farris ‘Pete' (Thompson) Raines. Tammy is preceded in death by her mother, Pete Raines; grandparents, Larry and Ruby Thompson, and Allen and Lottie Raines. Survivors include her husband of 19 years, Joey Dean; sons, Joey Raines Dean and John "Caleb" Dean; sisters, Laura Lee Mitchell (Kevin) and Jodi Raines Dennis (Mike); nieces, Britton Atchley, Emelia Dennis, Camryn Tilford and Jenna Cate Roberts; nephews, Joshua Atchley and Jagger Meeks. Tammy was devoted to her boys. She taught them by example whether attending their games, assisting with their school projects or organizing family trips. Tammy's enthusiasm for life was felt by everyone. Tammy was a gifted athlete. She excelled in softball and track. She ran high hurdles for the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. She obtained BA and Master's degrees from UCA. Tammy spent her career helping others with an emphasis on those with special needs. As Athletic Director of Arkansas Special Olympics, she took a small program and developed it into one that serves thousands. Her talents went global when the National Special Olympics sent Tammy to China, Quatar, and Africa to teach others. The founder of Special Olympics, Rose Kennedy touted Tammy's accomplishments to exemplify excellence. She worked with multiple organizations developing programs for people with special needs including Good Buddy, First Step and A Special Needs Sunday School class at First Baptist Church in Hot Springs. Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Friday at First Baptist Church of Hot Springs with Pastor John McCallum officiating. Burial will follow in Pinecrest Cemetery in Bryant, Arkansas. Guests may register at www.caruth-hale.com.