Sarah Elizabeth Tunnell

Sarah Elizabeth Tunnell was born in Tyler, Texas, on November 2, 1977, to Ed and Trina Tunnell. Sarah passed away after a brief battle with an aggressive cancer on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in Tyler, Texas. Sarah accomplished much in her 47 years, having attained multiple degrees, worked in several career fields, and traveled the world. Her most important decision was her choice to accept Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and Lord. It is this decision which provides comfort and hope for her family and friends.

Sarah was a loving daughter and supportive sister, always kind and compassionate towards her parents and brothers. Her four nephews and two nieces had a special relationship with Aunt Sarah, who loved dressing up for birthday parties, trips to the Caldwell ZOO or the Polar Express.

Sarah was raised in Hawkins, Texas, where she graduated from High School in 1996. Sarah was an avid reader and learner, who pursued multiple degrees, earning a bachelor’s degree from East Texas Baptist University (2000), a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University (2014) and was pursuing a PhD through Walden University. Sarah was also engaged in multiple theatre companies and performances through the Tyler Civic Center, Pollard Theater Center, and Liberty Hall. Aside from learning and theater, Sarah was a fond lover of cats. Her two babies, Fenway and Janis, were faithful companions.

A world traveler, Sarah journeyed to more than half a dozen countries for both leisure and study, most recently having traveled to Israel and Latvia. Trips across the continental U.S. were common, especially trips to Boston, MA, to visit friends. Much of Sarah’s travel had to do with mission work. She was particularly fond of supporting the ministry of Talsi Christian School (TCS) in Latvia. Sarah went on multiple trips to TCS over the years to encourage others with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Always willing to serve, Sarah was faithful to join a local church wherever she lived. From volunteering with students, to running A/V for multiple services, Sarah exhibited a true servant’s heart wherever she went.

Sarah is survived by her parents, Ed and Trina Tunnell, of Hawkins, TX; brother, Nathan Tunnell and wife Shawna, of Hawkins, TX; brother, Zachary Tunnell and wife Deanna, of Alba, TX; nephews, Tristan, Coplen, Noah, Malachi; nieces, Bethany and Hosanna; along with aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in Sarah’s memory to O'Malley Alley Cat Rescue, Talsi Christian School, or Alzheimer's Association.

Services for Sarah will be Monday, January 6, 2025 at First Baptist Church in Hawkins, starting at 11:00AM with Dr. Bill Holmes and Dr. Aaron Little officiating.