Thelma Catherine Marteli 65 years old, of Zephyrhills, Florida, passed away peacefully at her home on

May 24, 2025. Born on September 16, 1959, in Tampa, Florida. Tammy lived a life marked by deep love

for her family, a generous heart, and a profound connection to animals and nature.

Tammy was the beloved daughter of the late Catherine and Thomas Johnson and the cherished

granddaughter of George and Lillian Handley. Her childhood in Tampa was filled with warm summer

days, playing with cousins, laughter, and the early seeds of her lifelong devotion to caring for others, both

people and animals alike.

She is survived by her loving children: daughter Billie McCarthy and son Charles "BJ" Johnson.

Tammy's nurturing spirit extended to her grandchildren, Mikayla Johnson, Angel Johnson, Michael Davis

Jr., Gabrielle Davis, and Gianna McCarthy, each of whom brought joy and pride to her life.

Tammy shared a close and enduring bond with her sister, Kathy Dorden, and was a treasured aunt to her

nieces; Billie "Wynette" Edmonson, Cathy Lynn Dorden, Candie Lopez, Jessica Brewer and Kaylee Justice, Cathy "Peanut" Dorden

nephews; Joe Dorden, Scott Dorden, John Dorden and Thomas Edmonson. Her extended family

provided a source of love and strength throughout her life, and she cherished the moments spent with

them.

Tammy believed in Jesus, heaven and the comforting power of belief and hope. Her faith was a guiding

light that brought peace to herself and those around her. She lived out her values through quiet acts of

kindness, unwavering generosity, and a heart that welcomed all.

Tammy had a lifelong love for animals, especially horses, and found true companionship in her beloved

dogs, Bandit and Bean. Her gentle nature made her a natural caregiver to all creatures, great and small.

Whether outdoors, surrounded by nature, or spending time with her family, especially the children she

found great joy in their laughter and energy. Tammy embraced life's simplest and truest blessings,

reminding us all to appreciate the beauty in everyday moments.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and

friend. Her memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, a testament to the love she

shared and the lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, friends and family are respectfully invited to send floral arrangements of their choice,

especially carnations, which were Tammy's favorite flowers to Hodges Family Funeral Home.

Alternatively, to honor Tammy's compassionate and selfless spirit, donations may be made to the ASPCA

(American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), a cause close to her heart and reflective of

her deep love for animals.

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