Tracy Pauline Herold

November 18, 1956 - June 13, 2021

In the evening hours of June 13, 2021 Tracy Pauline Williams Herold began her journey into the last great frontier. She left the captain's chair at approximately 8pm for an away mission into uncharted space. Tracy was born November 18, 1956. Her parents, Polly and Joe Williams, quickly learned they had their hands full with the bright and fiercely independent little girl (who, by the age of three would ride her tricycle to her grandmother's house to visit). In February of 1966 the family welcomed a second daughter into the world. Connie was a cheerleader who grew into a friend that would root for Tracy the rest of her life. Whether Tracy was diving off the high dive at Scenic Hills Recreation Club, excelling at the piano, or succeeding in her career Tracy was an example of how to get the most out of life. Tracy attended Raleigh Egypt High School in Memphis. She served as a math tutor, which led to her meeting a tall, thin and hairy boy named Barry Herold, who began biking over daily to watch Star Trek and would become her husband and the love of her life. Tracy graduated at sixteen to join Barry at Memphis State University and in August of 1976 the couple married and in 1978 moved to Lynchburg, Virginia. Tracy and Barry later made a home in southern Florida. The couple enjoyed traveling, but always found their way home for holidays with the family and they prioritized travel and spending time with family and friends. While in Florida, Tracy and Barry enjoyed a life full of adventure, making friends from all over the world and having all manor of unique pets. During these years they became doting aunt and uncle of Brandon, Julia, Rebecca and Maddie Waters. They eventually left their beloved Florida and move to Chicago, enjoyed professional success and the finer things their hard work afforded them. Tracy enjoyed collecting jewelry, fur coats, purses and fragrances. She loved to talk for hours about her purchases and delighted in sharing them with her family. The last big move took the couple to sunny California. Those 10 years saw Tracy's health declining, but she loved the weather and her beautiful roses. In 2018 Tracy and Barry returned home to be close to family in Mississippi. Connie, Charles and Maddie Waters helped to move their treasures and pets home. Tracy's mother Polly planted roses for her to enjoy, her favorite was First Crush. Tracy was an example of hard work, organization and stubborn resolve. She tried to stay positive even when her many ailments made it difficult. Her absence will always be felt, but the memories of the good times of rich joy and laughter will always keep her close. For now Tracy, boldly go on this last great adventure. Live long and prosper and we look forward to the time we will see you again.