Tara Gaye Rathbun, 54Tara Gaye Rathbun, 54, passed away on Thursday, June 29, 2017 at her home after a brief battle with cancer. She was born on September 7, 1962 in Concord, CA to William and Maxcine (Miller) Butler.Tara grew up in Modoc, IN. She graduated from Union High School in 1981. After high school she worked as a nurse's aide and attended Ivy Tech in Fort Wayne, IN where she earned a degree as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Tara worked at Millers Merry Manor in Hartford City for over 15 years.She married Jeffory Rathbun on November 20, 1987 in Terre Haute, IN. They were married for 29 years. Tara enjoyed fostering cats and kittens, gardening, traveling with Jeffory and spending time with family.Tara is survived by Jeffory of Hartford City, her step-daughter Cristy Rathbun (Korey Whillhite) of Upland, her father William (Pam) Butler of Fort Wayne, her brother Dennis (Christy) Butler of Yorktown, sisters Deborah (Perry) Roberts of Mooreland, Marion (John) Witty of Williamsburg, Fredrica Brisentine (Randall Conn) of Fort Wayne. One grandchild, Macie Willhite of Upland and many beloved nieces, nephews and other family members.Tara was preceded in death by her mother, Maxcine Butler and her sister, Peggy Cox.There will be no public services held, so please celebrate Tara's life by making a donation to your local ASPCA in memory of her. Condolences may be left on online guest book or mailed to 618 Russell Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN 46808.Tara will be remembered for being fearless, strong-willed, generous, fun, loving and a say what's on your mind kind of person. She will be missed terribly by her family and friends.