Tara McAllister ... longtime registered nurse; at 52

DOVER - Tara Stillwagon McAllister, 52, of Dover, died at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024, after a long battle with Multiple System Atrophy - Parkinsonian, with family and friends by her side.

Born on April 27, 1972, in Dover, Tara was the beloved daughter of Virginia "Ginnie" and Charles "Pat" Stillwagon. She was a lifelong resident of Dover, graduating from Dover High School in 1990. She carried on her education at Great Bay Community College, obtaining her Registered Nursing degree in 2010 and, later, her BSN from Southern NH University. As someone who had intended to be a history teacher, Tara decided to follow in her mother's footsteps and found her true calling in nursing. She absolutely loved being a nurse and dedicated more than 12 years to being an RN at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, where her presence touched the lives of many patients and co-workers alike.

Tara was an avid outdoor enthusiast during spring, summer, and fall. She had a passion for hiking, camping, and spending time at the beach or lake. She was well known for her free spirit and love for adventure. Tara loved to travel; always taking her childhood teddy bear, which has traveled to more destinations than most of her tribe. She was forever on the go and always up for trying something new, wild, and, likely, a little crazy.

Tara was quick witted with a wry sense of humor, matched only by her husband, Ben, and a friend or two. She loved music and had an extensive repertoire that spanned seven decades, with her absolute favorite being "Drift Away" by Dobie Gray.

Tara was happiest spending time with friends and family and found joy in hosting gatherings at her pool for weekend cookouts and 4th of July parties. She loved her friends and family with all of her heart and never missed an opportunity to help them out. In return, she was surrounded by an abundance of love from her family and lifelong friends, and will be remembered as a cherished mother, wife, sister and friend.

Tara is survived by her husband of 20 years, Ben, their daughter, Ava, 16, and son, Riley, 12, all of Dover; stepdaughter Sydney McAllister and her partner Trevor Roy of Rochester; stepdaughter Morgan McAllister and her son Jameson of Dover; sister Traci Chauvey and her husband Ed of Nottingham; her nephew Evan Chauvey of Nottingham; and many beloved friends.

Tara is preceded in death by her parents Ginnie and Pat Stillwagon.