Tara Cloud

The extraordinary Tara Cloud, traveling scholar, award-winning photographer and blogger (www.travelblog.org /Bloggers/taracloud/), passed away in Arequipa, Peru. Her passing is mourned by family, former students and an international community of friends.

Born Terry Ann Simmerman, in San Diego, to Wilfred Simmerman and Blossom Ellison, Tara graduated from Hueneme High and earned her BA and MA in history from UC Santa Barbara.

Tara taught history and ESL at Santa Barbara City College. She was passionate about education, political causes, women’s issues and animals. She volunteered for the Women’s Community Building Project and SB Rape Crisis Center among other nonprofits. Tara immersed herself in local culture, sang with The Threshhold Choir, and loved sacred and classical music and opera.

With her clear, compassionate perceptions and irreverent wit, Tara shared her journeys, insights, challenges and delights. She was a true ambassador for world peace.

Donations can be made to Santa Barbara Planned Parenthood and to K~9 Pals. A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, June 4, 4-6 pm, Godric Grove, Elings Park, Santa Barbara. Info: harrieteckstein@cox.net