Tara Lynn Montgomery was born February 4, 1961 in Cleveland,Ohio to the late James L. Cole Sr. and Velmar Cole making her number 6 of 8 children to their union. As a child, she was mostly mild-mannered known for being a mediator in any situation which continued well into her adult years.

Tara Lynn was educated in the Cleveland Public School System also attending John Adams High School where she was trained in Culinary Arts. After graduation she married her high school sweetheart Paul L. Montgomery on June 2, 1990. Two children were born to this union Toccara L. and Patrick L.

Right out of high school, Tara was hired at the Higbee’s Silver Grille Restaurant in food service. She then went on to work at the Clinic Inn and at Willow Park Nursing Home for a number of years. A large part of her work tenure was spent at the Salvation Army Women’s and Children’s Shelter and the Garden Valley Neighborhood House. While at the GVNH she diligently served as the food service manager and a community service advocate. She provided resources and a safe space for families in need.

Tara Lynn had many interest in life. She enjoyed music with one of her favorite groups being Earth, Wind, and Fire. She also enjoyed hand dancing which she perfected by using her younger sister as her partner.She spent time singing, attending concerts, and camping with family. Throughout her robust life she was known for many things like her beloved family nicknames “Guppie” and “T-Bone”. Her passion for family and cooking made Tara highly sought-after for two signature dishes: macaroni and cheese and rigatoni. Coming from a strong family of faith, Tara accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior as a young adult. She shared her faith with her family and loved ones at any opportunity and also became a member at The Word Church. Some of her proudest moments are the achievements accomplished by her children whom she loved dearly.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved husband of 33 years, Paul L. Montgomery, her devoted children Toccara and Patrick, her siblings: James L. Cole Jr., Debra Kent, Reginald Cole(Robin), Jeffrey Cole(Renee), Bobby Cole(preceded in death), Derwin Cole, and Shearese L. Coles(Michael). A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family and friends notably mother Gloria Bryant, Essie Gardner, and Carolyn Hicks.