ODESSA Tammy Jean Walker Henderson was born on May 16, 1958, in Seagraves, Texas. Our angel flew away on July 1, 2009, finally free from pain. She was able to be rejoined with her daughter, Tabitha, who had preceded her in death when only a child.

After Tammy's birth, she was welcomed into the loving arms and home of Ray and Violet Walker, and she came to Odessa when she was only days old. She brought much joy to the family and became the light in her family's heart. She was a very best friend to her older sister, Denyce. She attended Zavala and Goliad Elementary Schools, Crockett Junior High and Odessa High School.

At the time of her death, Tammy was the wife of Jimmy K. Henderson. They were true soulmates and shared a love like no other! Tammy was a kind, loving and strong woman who was also strong of will. She wasn't afraid to tackle anything. She was a rock for her family. Her daughter, Amber, says, "If I could be even half the woman she was, I'll be doing good."

From a cousin's point of view, Tammy was a "diamond in the rough." A rough exterior that you had to break away to see the true jewel that sparkled inside. Her interests were mainly her home and family. She loved holidays and big family get-togethers. She was a hell of a woman.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Tabitha; her father, Ray Walker; her brother, James Richard Walker; and her sister, Cathy Byram.

She is survived by her loving husband, Jimmy K. Henderson; her mother, Violet Walker; and her birth-mother, Shelby Byram: her daughter, Amber Roe; her sister, Denyce Hawk and husband George.

Suffering the loss greatly, is her sidekick, her pride and joy, granddaughter, Sadie Roe. She is also survived by their daughter, Stephanie Shumate; and grandson, Stephen; brothers, Joey and Marlyn Byram and Randy and his wife Connie Byram; also many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. All of her family will miss her greatly.

Services will be held Friday, July 3, 2009, at Acres West Funeral Chapel in Odessa, Texas, at 2 p.m.