LANCASTER, SC ~ Mrs. Tami Faile Ethridge, age 62, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 8, 2026, at Atrium Health Main, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on January 25, 1964, in Lancaster, SC, to the late Joe Siflanigain Faile and the late Barbara Watts Faile.

Tami was a truly special person whose life was defined by kindness, compassion, and an unwavering love for others. She had a servant’s heart and never hesitated to put someone else’s needs before her own. Whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or simply being there when someone needed her, Tami had a way of making people feel loved, valued, and cared for. Her family meant everything to her, and the time she spent with those she loved was always treasured.

For more than 30 years, Tami devoted her life to educating and encouraging children through her work with the Lancaster County School District. As an early childhood educator and reading coach, she poured her heart into her students, believing in their potential and celebrating their accomplishments. Teaching was much more than a career to Tami—it was a calling. The countless children she taught and encouraged will carry a part of her kindness and love with them for years to come.

Tami’s faith was also a central part of her life. She was a devoted member of Antioch Baptist Church, where she loved her church family and faithfully served others. She taught the Women of Strength Sunday School class and enjoyed participating in Bible studies. She also had a special love for the House of Pearls Ministry, where she found joy in serving and encouraging others. Her faith was not simply something she believed; it was something she lived each day through the way she loved and cared for those around her.

Tami found joy in the simple things that made life special. She enjoyed shopping, painting and ceramics, taking pleasure in the creativity and time spent making something beautiful. She also treasured the friendships she made throughout her life. She was a proud member of TAT’s and enjoyed gathering with fellow teachers and friends, sharing laughter, fellowship, and the memories that made those relationships so special.

While Tami found purpose in teaching and joy in serving others, her greatest blessing was her family. She was a wonderful wife, devoted mother, loving Grammy, and faithful friend. Nothing brought her greater happiness than being with the people she loved, especially her beloved grandson, Spencer. He was the light of her life, and she treasured every moment they shared, especially Grammy Tuesday's. The love between a Grammy and her grandson was especially precious to Tami, and the memories they made together will be cherished forever.

Tami leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue through the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed by her son, Joseph Ethridge and his wife, Christy; her beloved grandson, Spencer Landon Ethridge; her extended family; and the many friends who were blessed to know her and whom she considered family.

Tami was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 36 years, David Henry Ethridge; and her parents, Joe S. Faile and Barbara W. Faile.

The Celebration of Life Service for Tami will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Antioch Baptist Church, officiated by Dr. Trent McLaughlin. Interment will follow at Lancaster Memorial Park Mausoleum.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the House of Pearls, PO Box 516, Monroe, NC 28111.

An online guest register is available for condolences on the obituary page at www.burgessfunerals.com.

Burgess Funeral Home & Crematory of Lancaster is caring for the family of Mrs. Tami Faile Ethridge.