Tammy Dailey Riley

June 27, 1970 – July 19, 2026

Tammy Dailey Riley, 56, entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at UAB St. Vincent in Birmingham, Alabama.

Tammy’s greatest joy was her faith in Jesus Christ. She was a believer and a member of Randolph Baptist Church in Randolph, Alabama, where she was baptized in the Holy Spirit during her childhood. Her faith gave her peace, strength, and an unwavering hope in the promise of eternal life.

Tammy was a devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and faithful friend. She treasured her family deeply and found great joy in spending time with those she loved. She was especially excited about welcoming her first great-grandchild next February, a blessing she eagerly anticipated.

Known for her generous heart, Tammy was always willing to help anyone she could. Whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or simply being present, she quietly demonstrated Christ’s love to those around her. One of her greatest desires was that her family would remain united, loving one another and staying close after she entered Heaven.

Tammy was preceded in death by her beloved son, Thomas Riley; her father, Johnny Dailey; her sister, Lisa K. Roberson; and the man who lovingly raised her, Ovid Merchant Jr.

She is survived by her loving mother, Carolyn White; her daughter, Rachel Helton (Jonathan); her brothers, Ricky Dailey (Heather), David Dailey, and David Merchant (Bonita); her sisters, Beth Merchant, Susan Harris (Shane), Sharon Walden, and Amy Thomas; and her cherished grandchildren, Hannah, Haley, and Bradley Helton. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.

While her family grieves her absence, they rejoice in knowing that Tammy is whole, healed, and in the presence of Jesus Christ, reunited with those who have gone before her. Her legacy of faith, compassion, generosity, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child (Shoebox Ministry) or The Gideons International, ministries that reflect Tammy’s desire to share the love and hope of Jesus Christ with people around the world. A Private family gathering will be held at a later date.