The daughter of the late Hosea, Sr. and Kate Coward Groom, Mrs. Tarver was born in Bessemer, AL on October 20, 1930. She obtained her Bachelors degree from Alabama State University, and her Masters degree from Troy State University. She was an educator with the Russell County School System, retiring from Mt. Olive Middle School with 43 years of service. She was a member of First African Baptist Church, and the Russell County Educators Association.

She was preceded in death by three sibling, Hosea Groom, Jr., Ed Groom and Anna Thomas.

Survivors include: her husband of 45 years, Mr. Curtis L. Tarver; one son, Anthony C. Tarver; a sister, Kate Calhoun (John B.); devoted niece and nephews, Beverly (Clyde), Linda, Bridgette, Michelle, John, Jr. and Patricia, Andre' and Larry, Jr.; loving in-laws, George Thomas, Frances Groom, Janice Groom and Mary Jo Taylor; a host of cousins, other relatives and friends.