Tara Lee Fairbanks

Tara Lee Fairbanks (née Merril), 55, passed away on September 24, 2025, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Born on July 30, 1970, in Gardner, Massachusetts, Tara lived a life filled with love, devotion, and vibrant energy that touched everyone around her.

A proud graduate of Shawnee High School in Medford, Class of 1988, Tara carried her passion for nurturing others into her professional life. She found great joy and fulfillment working with children-as a caretaker, a nanny, and through her time at the daycare. Her warmth and dedication left lasting impressions on the many young lives she helped shape.

Tara was a devoted Christian who loved the Lord deeply. Reborn in faith, she gave her life to God and lived each day with spiritual purpose and gratitude. Her faith was a guiding light that influenced every aspect of her life.

She was a loving mother to five children: her daughters, Jaden Kathleen Fairbanks, Skyler Ledene Fairbanks, Raina Elizabeth Fairbanks and Katelyn Merril and her son Dawson Merril Longstreet. Her love for them was unwavering and evident in all she did.

Tara was preceded in death by her father Dana Merril, her mother Cathrine Harris, and her sister Lauran Merril. Their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life.

Those who knew Tara will remember her zest for life and the many passions that brought her joy. She cherished long days lying on the beach under the sun, capturing moments through photography and preserving them through scrapbooking. A true early riser with unmatched discipline, she enjoyed working out at 4 a.m., embracing everything girlie with enthusiasm-from fashion to beauty routines. She adored her three cats and held a special place in her heart for the New England Patriots.

Tara's spirit was radiant-she loved deeply and fully. Her kindness extended to everyone she met; she truly loved life and all those who were part of hers.

May Tara's memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a memorial service at 12:00 pm at LeRoy P. Wooster Funeral Home, 441 White Horse Pike, Atco, NJ 08004.