Tammy Jo Spinner Mccombs

With a personality as vibrant as the live music she adored, Tammy Jo Spinner McCombs, affectionately known as Tammy to her friends and "Flipper" to those who knew her love for dolphins, has taken her final bow in the great comedy of life. Born on December 27, 1972, in Kansas City, KS, Tammy's laughter-filled journey came to a peaceful end on March 30, 2024, in Topeka, KS, surrounded by her family due to an aneurysm. She was the life of the party who never missed a beat, and she certainly didn't miss the opportunity to make her 51 years on this planet a rollicking good time.

Tammy's zest for life was only matched by her love for her family. She was the cherished daughter of Nancy Jane Nikitouplos and Joseph Thomas Spinner, both of whom had previously taken their own final curtain calls. Tammy's legacy lives on through her daughter, Niki Nicole Spinner, and her son Dalton Evan Hernstrom, who both inherited their mother's knack for turning any situation into a reason to smile. Her grandchildren, Audrey Naveah-Lynn, Jason William, and Nico Riley Spinner will no doubt carry on her adventurous spirit and loving heart. Tammy's siblings, Tom, Victoria, Joseph, Danielle, David, and Mary were her lifelong cast members in the wonderful production of her life.

Tammy was a master of mixology and the queen of camaraderie during her decade-long tenure at JJ's, a local bar where the regulars became family. She had the uncanny ability to remember your drink, your dog's name, and the punchline to the joke you told last week. Her colleagues and patrons knew her as someone who poured her soul into every glass and every interaction.

Tammy's home was often the hub of laughter, where large meals and larger stories were shared. Tammy's selfless nature meant her door was always open, her table always full, and her jokes always ready to fly.

Describing Tammy is simple: she was the embodiment of love, adventure, and selflessness. She tackled life the way she tackled her interests—with full-throttle enthusiasm and a mischievous twinkle in her eye. She was the friend who'd help you move a couch, the aunt who'd sneak you an extra cookie, and the sister who'd always have your back—preferably while cracking a joke to lighten the mood.

Tammy's absence will leave a void in the hearts of those who knew her, but her stories, her laughter, and her indomitable spirit will forever echo in the memories of her loved ones. Her comedic timing may have been impeccable, but her departure was a showstopper that no one saw coming.

As we bid farewell to Tammy Jo Spinner McCombs, let us remember her as the beacon of joy she was. Her punchlines may have paused, but the ripples of her laughter will continue to spread. She's probably somewhere right now, shaking up celestial cocktails, charming the angels with her tales, and keeping an eye out for any dolphins that might be swimming through the heavens.

Tammy, you were the headliner in the show of life, and though your set may have ended, the standing ovation will carry on. Thank you for the joy, the adventure, and the selfless love.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday the 7th from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm at The Red Room 7324 W 80th St Overland Park, KS 66204.