The unexpected and sudden passing of Tamere Selassie (Lily) Makonnen, a vibrant unique soul and loving sister, aunt, cousin, friend, and confidante to many, whose personal motto was "I did it my way," serves as a testament to a life lived with unwavering passion. Lily's enthusiasm for life was contagious; she possessed a profound capacity for love, lived life to the fullest, and laughed with unbridled joy.

Inspired by her parents' adventurous spirit, Lily's passion for travel led her to explore the world, immerse herself in diverse cultures, and forge lasting connections with people from all walks of life. Her numerous journeys following her parent's footsteps were often accompanied by her parents. After our father's passing, she continued traveling with her mother, other family members and dear friends.

Her travels also took her to various parts of Ethiopia, where she discovered opportunities to make a meaningful impact. In one such instance, she encountered a teacher and students in need of support in the countryside of Wello. Lily seized the opportunity to make a difference, providing essential supplies, sponsoring the students, and visiting them regularly until the onset of the last devastating civil war. She was heartbroken, not knowing what happened to both the students and their devoted teacher as she couldn't reconnect with them again after the war.

Tammera Selassie Mekonnen was born on October 13 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She attended Nazareth School in Addis Ababa before moving to Mecosta, Michigan with Dr. Russell Kirk and his lovely wife Mrs. Annette Kirk in her sophomore year, where she completed her high school education. Lily went on to pursue higher education at Hillsdale College and later earned her master's degree in social work from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Her professional journey took her to Los Angeles, California, where she worked as a compassionate Senior Social Worker for many years before opting for early retirement to pursue her passions.

In retrospect, it seems that Lily's decision to retire early was driven by her insatiable curiosity and desire to explore the world. As of late, Lily was working on finishing the book she was writing, focusing on her passion for art sketching, and planning her next exciting trip in August to Egypt, Italy, etc. C'est la vie!

Though she left us early, her memory and legacy will continue to inspire and touch the hearts of everyone who knew her.  She'll be terribly missed. Lily was preceded in death by her sister Mahadere Selassie (Baby) Mekonnen. She is survived by three sisters, two brothers, nephew's, niece's, cousins and lifelong community of friends.

May She Rest in Perpetual Peace. Memory Eternal.

Services are under the arrangements of:

Allen Dave Funeral Homes and Crematorium

2103 Cypress Landing Rd.

Houston, Texas 77090

Phone (713) 480-2966

Fax (713) 634-2707