My mother’s death was cause for the donation of an entire box truck worth of her personal and styling inventory. Giving back to the community was and will always be Tammy Avington.
What is a philanthropist? It was my mom.
She was a wife, mother, GiGi (grandmother), and loved one to so many. My mom never met a stranger. Once she met you she immediately showered you with love. Her unexpected passing at the age of 63 was a shock to so many. But before, during, and after her passing, she’s impacted the lives of so so many people.
She was a stylist with more than 153,000 followers in Poshmark, a worldwide online reselling organization. She was also part of many other platforms and a personal stylist to many. She curated a large collection of high fashion and casual clothing, purses, scarves, other accessories, and home decor.
We could have easily sold my mother’s business and personal possessions. Instead, together with family and friends, we donated her entire inventory to Thrifty Threads Clothing Closet, a thrift store and donation center owned and operated by The Julian Center. Her new and gently used clothes, home goods and furniture are helping survivors and all benefited The Julian Center.
96 industrial sized bags, 50+ boxes, and an entire box truck later,
my moms belongings and clothes are touching many, many more people through this local store supporting neighbors in need. Even after death, she’s giving back to her community.
My sister, dad, niece, and a loving group of family and friends came together to help pack (and of course shop) all her belongings and clean out her space in ONE DAY. Everyone that showed up that day will never understand the positive impact they had on my grief journey. It was difficult to pack her things so quickly. The physical labor, coordination of how and where my loved ones could volunteer to help, finding a nonprofit to take such a large donation, and determining pick up and drop off with their staff was exhausting in every sense of the word. And this was done over a short four day period immediately after her homegoing service. But it was needed and necessary. My mother amassed a large inventory, sometimes overwhelming her. My parents hadn’t parked their cars in the garage for YEARS.
Because my mother instilled selflessness within our immediate family unit, now her loved ones and many throughout Indianapolis all have a physical piece of Tammy and her love for the world fashion.
Part of my self discovery journey is deeply reflecting on just how good she was (and still is) for this world. She was the person who had a positive attitude about everything, she was very optimistic, always helped others physically and emotionally, she was a very bright light in a dark world. Her soul, spirit, and personality always lit up the room and automatically people liked her and were drawn to her.
She was a true friend, a counselor, a mentor, a philanthropist, good-hearted, generous, forthcoming, helpful, friendly, and caring. One of my favorite quotes about giving back is “I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.” A quote by Maya Angelou that my perfectly describes this massive donation.
Her spirit was truly God bearing and she was an anointed Child of God. Her time was up here and God called her to a greater mission that He needs her to complete.
In the words of my niece Kennedy, “My Gigi was a very kind loving and strong woman. She always made it her goal to make sure I was in a good state in my life and to prepare me for being a woman. With the donation of her clothes, I hope that many more women can be empowered with strength.”
Cheers to an amazing woman.
Many thanks to my dad, sister, and niece for helping me author this blog post.
Until next time Lovies. Grateful for you,
T.Love
Love it! I love who your sharing your grieving moments to heal with every one. Love you guys so much, your mom was so many things to so many ppl.
Lord knows I’m thankful for you! The way you stepped up for us will never be forgotten. Love you so much!
Your mom was an awesome woman. I pick up the phone to call her and I can’t. I wish I could have been there to help you all out but I have the girls and they are in school here in Orlando. I will be there December 26 th til the 29th in Indy. I loved my friend and I hear her talking to all the time reassuring me that I did the right thing. Tammy will always be in my heart, gone but not forgotten.
no apologies needed. ty for the prayers, love, and support. she’s always with us.
Giving to the community your mother’s things was awesome. These items will bless others and have a positive impact on the community. This event will give loving memories to all of you for years to come. 💕🙏🏿
Dr. Coley! Thank you for this. I hope now you see where I get my giving spirit from. Miss our times together. You will forever be a special person in my life. Hope all is well.
Tammy was truly one of the most beautiful people I have known. She will be missed. You all have honored her in the best way possible by providing her things to those in need. Her legacy lives on. My continued prayers in your healing journey.
Thank you for the prayers. It’s been my duty to honor her. Hard yet healing. Thank you for the encouragement!
I love this so much! When my grandmother passed, I got so much of her costume jewelry. While the pieces gave me memories of my grandmother, Tammy brought them to life! She had a vision and entire outfit idea for each piece she looked at. She never failed to impress me with her talents, and provided such a deep level of love and support. I know her things will bring great joy to those who acquire them.
The love and care you all took to do this is amazing, hard, and healing. Missing her daily. ❤️
Cousin! The way this touched my soul. Thank you for sharing. You’re right, she was truly something special and sounds like your grandmother was too. I’m positive they are looking down on us. Making sure we’re ok. Love you!
When I was younger your Mother and Grandmother was so loving and God fearing💜. You all welcomed me into your family with opened arms. I will never forget coming over and spending the night and hanging out with Shannon. Your mother was one Amazing woman with lots of love and her laugh I will never forget🤗💜. I know your parents are proud of the Women they created and I’m sure your Grandmother is Proud of ALL of you💜💜💜. Much Love Always Alice💜
Alice – thank you for this! These messages are healing to my soul. Appreciate you!
I never met your mom, but I can see so many of her qualities in you – especially that caring, giving spirit! You are amazing, thanks for sharing your story. Hugs from a friend from the past 🙂
Sarah! so lovely to hear from you. Your hug is received and I’m sending it right back. Thanks for reading 🙂
Love reading your blog and I love that you guys were able to donate so many of your mom’s things to help other families in need. I miss her so much and I love you guys and just continue this amazing work.
love you right back bestie! ty for lifting me up!
Love it, you hit the nail on the head with this post That’s my wife, my baby, and the love of my life!
that’s right daddy! love you endlessly!