The Sacramento community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Tamara Rachelle Wiggins, a devoted mother, sister, and tireless advocate for autism awareness whose passing has left her family, friends, and supporters in profound sorrow. Known to many by her uplifting presence online under the handle “Living with Lilac,” Tamara lived her life with passion, humor, and fierce dedication—especially when it came to her children and the causes she championed.
A Sister’s Farewell
Her family shared the devastating news with love and raw honesty: “Dear friends and fam, my little sister Tamara Rachelle has ascended to eternal peace. Please keep our family in your prayers. Funeral arrangements will be held in Sacramento. TBD.”
The grief is immense, but the words reflect the love of a family who saw in Tamara not just a relative, but a bright light who enriched their lives with care and laughter.
A Mother’s Fierce Love
Tamara was first and foremost a mother of four, a role she embraced with unwavering commitment. She lived with a constant awareness of the unique challenges faced by parents of children on the autism spectrum. One of her deepest fears—expressed candidly and courageously—was the thought of leaving this world without knowing who would continue to protect and guide her children. She spoke openly about these concerns, not to inspire pity, but to remind others of the importance of planning, community, and honest conversations about life’s realities.
And while the subject was heavy, Tamara often approached it with a brand of humor uniquely hers. She had a knack for slipping in a wry remark that could transform tears into chuckles, reminding everyone that laughter was often the best armor against fear.
Advocate, Educator, Encourager
Tamara’s voice carried far beyond her home. Through her Instagram presence “Living with Lilac,” she shared daily life, triumphs, and struggles in ways that resonated with other parents navigating autism journeys. She was not afraid to be vulnerable, often turning the messy moments into lessons and the victories into celebrations. Her advocacy wasn’t about speeches or stages—it was about lived experience, authenticity, and an unshakable belief that children deserved every opportunity to thrive.
She encouraged families to speak openly, to share stories, and to build circles of support. Her openness fostered a sense of solidarity that helped many realize they were not alone in their struggles.
Remembered with Gratitude and Humor
Friends, neighbors, and fellow parents describe Tamara as “an awesome mother of four and a huge advocate for Autism.” They recall her infectious laughter, her willingness to stand up for others, and her ability to find hope in situations that seemed daunting. Even in her advocacy, she had a way of sprinkling humor where others might only see hardship—reminding everyone that joy and resilience go hand in hand.
Her legacy is not measured solely by her words but by the countless families she inspired, the children she uplifted, and the four beautiful lives she leaves behind.
Holding Her Memory Close
Tamara’s death is a loss felt deeply, but it is also a call to carry forward the love and strength she embodied. Her family, while heartbroken, takes solace in the outpouring of support and prayers from friends and strangers alike. As one tribute beautifully said: “May God give them the strength they need, Lord bless them with loving souls around them to pick up what their mother left off.”
Her journey reminds us to hug our loved ones tighter, to fight fiercely for what matters, and to never underestimate the power of laughter—even when life feels unbearably heavy.
