Tamela “Tammy” Renee Inchcliff, 57, of Vergennes, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on December 27, 2025, surrounded by the love of her devoted family.
Born March 2, 1968, in Murphysboro, Illinois, Tamela was the beloved daughter of Charles Richard Fruits and the late Lena Pearl (Ellis) Fruits. On December 12, 1987, she married her soulmate, Dennis E. Inchcliff, Hurst, Illinois. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering partnership, celebrating more than 38 years of marriage.
Tammy’s heart was as big as her spirit was mighty. She had an extraordinary love for animals—rescuing and adopting every stray that crossed her path—and a special passion for horses, which she groomed and cared for with gentle expertise over the years. She cherished the outdoors, delighting in long walks through the woods in search of morel mushrooms. Yet above all, her greatest joy and pride were her husband Dennis and her cherished family. Though small in stature, Tamela was a towering force of strength, kindness, and love.
She leaves behind a legacy of warmth and devotion in the hearts of: her loving husband, Dennis E. Inchcliff of Vergennes; her daughters, Dusty (Cornelius) Cavett of Vergennes, Tiffany (David) Melvin of DuQuoin, and Raven (Luke) Fager of Elkville; her father, Charles Fruits; her adored grandchildren, Lawrence, Jaylia, Kacen, Aonnah, David, Carter, Rylee, Alexis, Issaac, and Dalton; her precious great-grandchildren, Amila, Daxton, and Aemon; her siblings, Calvin Fruits, Pearl Clutts, and Alisa Jane Cooper; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.
Tammy was preceded in death by her mother, Lena Pearl Fruits; her father-in-law, Floyd “PeeWee” Inchcliff; her sister-in-law, Cheryl Fruits; her cousin, Connie Smith; and her dear best friend, Kate Norris.
A Celebration of Tammy’s remarkable life will be held at a later date, to be announced by the family.
Walker Funeral Home & Crematory of Southern Illinois is honored to serve the Inchcliff family.
Leave a Condolence