Tara Lynn Cummiskey

Tara Lynn Cummiskey, age 41, of Utica, went home to the Lord as she peacefully passed away on Friday, November 18, 2016 in the comfort of her home with the most meaningful wish granted that she would be surrounded by her family and dear friends. Born on Staten Island, New York on April 17, 1975, Tara was the daughter of the late Betsy Cummiskey. She moved upstate in 1993 to attend Oneonta College. She shared in a longtime relationship with her companion Al Clarke who took care of her. They were loyal to each other and Al was always a great comfort to Tara, even as he remained with her until the time of her passing. Tara worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the field of health care. She held positions at Heritage Health Care Center in Utica and at St. Vincent’s Hospital on Staten Island. Tara was kind-natured and passionate about other people’s needs. She was often referred to as an “Angel on Earth”. Tara was very traditional about her family values, she loved her children dearly, and always cherished the special moments with them. She was very inspirational to others. She recently began to find ways to inspire others through her works of art which she enjoyed giving to special people in her life. She also enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and because she was very photogenic, she never hesitated to pose for a photo. She was extremely active, animated, and productive. She was very proud of her Irish heritage and always wanted to learn how to dance the Irish Jig. She was fond of decorating her home in Irish style and attending the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. She was named after “Tara” from the movie “Gone With the Wind”, a symbol of constant love and permanence in a fast-changing world. She loved Gospel Music and recently had the pleasure and excitement of attending a performance by Tamela Mann. Tara had an independent heart and was highly spirited. She loved to read books by Joyce Meyers, Christian inspirational poetry, and ‘affirmations’. Each day was made easier by the guidance of these uplifting spiritual phrases. Tara was a member of the City Hope Fellowship Foursquare Gospel Church and shared a reverent relationship with Pastor Bradley Huson. Through his spiritual guidance, Tara kept her faith alive and grounded. She renewed herself to carry on and be of hope to others. Although she was aware of life’s disappointments, Tara held dear those she loved and wished well for her siblings. She rose above it all and wished them peace. She never fell short of hoping she was the best person to her survivors which include her son, Dana Ford; her daughter, Kiara Cummiskey; her companion, Al; and her sisters, Nashell, and Nicole and their husbands and children. She was blessed with a childhood friend, Monica Burrwell, husband David, and their entire family who were trusting, loving, and family to her in so many ways. She also appreciated the kindness and concern of Al’s children. The family is grateful to Dr. Alicia DeTraglia for her medical expertise; the personnel of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., with special mention of Irene, Judy Tastor, Ashley, and Crystal, the most gracious people anyone could find to accompany someone on their final journey; and her beloved friend, Monica Burrwell who saw to it that all of her most important wishes would be followed through. Visitation will be held Saturday, November 26th from 1-3 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. A Celebration of Life will commence at 3:00 immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Pastor Valerie Starczewski officiating.

Tara Lynn Cummiskey

April 17, 1975 - November 18, 2016