Tara Leigh Fugate

Tara Leigh Fugate, age 63, passed away on April 9, 2026. She was the daughter of Lillian Bragg Fugate and the late C. Noel Fugate.

She is also survived by her brother Michael N. Fugate, dear friend Trisha King, and her lifelong friend and partner Donna Smith.

Tara was born on May 24, 1962, in Lynchburg, VA. A graduate of Liberty University, Tara went on to a wide variety of occupations and currently served as a bus driver with the Lynchburg School District.

Tara was a free spirit. Her hobbies ranged from riding motorcycles to leather working and sewing, to jigsaw puzzles and more. She loved learning and exploring and was self taught with most activities.

Tara loved her pets through the years and is survived by her beloved Bassett, Nelson.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lynchburg Humane Society, 1211 Old Graves Mill Road, Lynchburg, 24502, or The American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284.

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.