It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Tarah Michelle Hawley, 40, on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at her home. Tarah’s death marks the end of a courageous battle, but her legacy of compassion, advocacy, and unyielding spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
Born on June 15, 1984, in Torrington, Connecticut, Tarah was the beloved daughter of Mark and Mae (Rychlovsky) Hawley. Raised in a family that instilled a strong sense of community and compassion, Tarah grew up in the area she would later serve so selflessly. Her educational journey was marked by determination and achievement. Tarah attended local schools and went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in American History from the University of Connecticut (UConn), before pursuing her passion for justice and law at the University of New Hampshire School of Law, where she earned her Juris Doctor degree.
Throughout her professional life, Tarah dedicated herself to helping others. As a legal advocate for the Connecticut Department of Rehabilitation Services, she became a tireless supporter of individuals with disabilities. Her work focused on ensuring that people who faced physical and mental challenges were given the support and resources they needed to live independent and fulfilling lives. Tarah’s legal expertise and passion for fairness extended far beyond her work with the Department of Rehabilitation Services. She also served with Hands of Grace, a local outreach ministry, where she provided assistance to individuals and families in need. Her role as a Domestic Violence Advocate for the Susan B. Anthony Foundation saw her providing crisis counseling to victims of domestic violence, helping them find their path to safety and healing.
In each of these roles, Tarah brought her full self — her heart, her wisdom, and her strength — to every individual she encountered. Her unwavering compassion and dedication made a tangible difference in the lives of those she helped, and her legacy will forever be entwined with the countless lives she touched through her advocacy.
While Tarah’s professional work was impactful, her personal passions and zest for life were equally notable. One of her greatest loves was gardening, particularly the creation and care of her floral planters. Known for her impeccable sense of style, Tarah could often be found in her garden or out shopping, always dressed to perfection and ready for any adventure. Shopping, for her, was not just about acquiring new things; it was an expression of her vibrant personality and her love for creativity.
Tarah’s creative flair also extended to the kitchen, where she took great joy in cooking and experimenting with culinary techniques. Her knowledge of culinary principles infused her cooking with a unique blend of flavor and artistry, and those fortunate enough to enjoy a meal prepared by Tarah remember it fondly. Her love for cooking wasn’t just about food; it was a way for her to connect with others, to show love, and to create unforgettable memories.
Another of Tarah’s talents was her gift for writing. She was a skilled poet, and her works have touched the hearts of many who knew her. Her words were thoughtful, meaningful, and infused with emotion. Whether in her poems or in her everyday conversations, Tarah’s ability to express herself was one of the many things that made her so special. Her writing will continue to inspire all who come across it, just as her spirit continues to inspire those who were fortunate to know her.
Despite the many challenges that Tarah faced in her life, she was known for her strength, perseverance, and infectious sense of humor. She had a mischievous twinkle in her eye that drew people in and made them feel at ease. Whether she was sharing a laugh with friends or offering a piece of advice to a loved one, Tarah’s presence was always a source of warmth and comfort.
Family was incredibly important to Tarah, and one of her greatest joys was being “Auntie TT” to her niece, Margot. The bond they shared was unique and special, and the two spent countless hours together, making memories and having fun. Their “checkups” from “Doctor Margot” were a heartwarming ritual, and Tarah’s role as an aunt was one that she cherished deeply. In addition to her love for Margot, Tarah also shared a special connection with her Yorkie, Wesley. The two were inseparable, and Wesley was a constant source of comfort and companionship for Tarah throughout her life.
Tarah’s family was everything to her, and she leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She is survived by her parents, Mark and Mae Hawley; her loving sister, Marissa Hawley Zeller of New Hartford; her niece, Margot Zeller; and a multitude of extended family, friends, and colleagues. In her final years, Tarah also found great comfort in the compassionate care she received from health professionals. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all those who made her journey more comfortable, offering support, care, and kindness during her most difficult moments.
Throughout her life, Tarah was a beacon of light, spreading love, laughter, and positivity to all who knew her. Her courage in the face of adversity, her passion for justice, and her dedication to others will be remembered forever. She leaves behind a profound impact on her family, her community, and the countless individuals whose lives she touched through her work and her kindness.
Friends and family will have the opportunity to pay their respects at a visitation held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, located at 39 Prospect Street in New Hartford, from 4 to 7 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Following the service, a private burial will take place for immediate family. A reception will be held at St. Paul’s Church for those wishing to gather and celebrate Tarah’s life.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, an organization dedicated to advancing spinal cord injury research and improving the quality of life for those living with paralysis. Donations can be made at christopherreeve.org.
Tarah Michelle Hawley may no longer walk among us, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her love, compassion, and strength will continue to inspire and guide us, and her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched.
