Tara L. Miller-Draper, 41, of Rochester, passed away at 10:28 AM, Tuesday, February 13 , 2018 at her residence.  This followed a valiant battle with cancer.

On February 20 , 1976, Tara was born in Hopkinsville, KY.  She was a treasured daughter of Larry Hightower and  Jodi A. Miller.   Tara graduated in 1994 from Rochester High School.   In November of 1995, Tara married Ray Draper.  From their union came a handsome son Brodi.

To relax, Tara  kept up with her friends on Facebook.  She enjoyed the challenges of puzzle books and played Tetra and Solitaire.  She was the proud owner of  a unique Boyd Bear collection.  With a huge heart and passion for animals Tara's feline companion Severus was at her side.  Paramount in her life was Brodi her crowning achievement who brought her great joy.   She enjoyed spending time with him and his friends.

Left to cherish Tara's memory  are a son, Brodi J. Draper of  Rochester; her mother, Jodi A. Miller and Ed Beaird of Kewanna; four sisters: Maggie Hightower and companion Travis Shanklin of Elkton, KY, Coty Hightower of Elkton, KY, Jeanette Cave and husband Dale of Rochester, Karie Beaird of North Judson;  lifelong friend  Ray Draper and his wife Patti; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins; and Severus, a short hair black domestic feline.   Preceding Tara in death are her father, Larry Hightower in 2010 and her maternal and paternal grandparents.

A celebration of the life of Tara L. Draper will be at 12:00 Noon, Saturday, February 17 , 2018, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester. Friends may visit with the family from 9:00 until the hour of the service in the funeral home.  Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to the Fulton County Animal Education and Adoption Center, Rochester.