OSHKOSH, Wisconsin – The Oshkosh community is mourning the tragic loss of Amanda Tennyson, a dedicated Harm Reduction Program Coordinator for Winnebago County Public Health, who passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 34. Known for her compassionate advocacy and tireless work supporting those struggling with substance use, Amanda’s sudden death has left a profound void in the community. Her impactful work and unwavering dedication to improving public health have earned her a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.

A Life of Compassion and Advocacy

Born in 1991 in Oshkosh, Amanda Tennyson grew up surrounded by the supportive environment of Winnebago County. She graduated from Oshkosh North High School before pursuing a degree in public health at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, where her passion for harm reduction and community wellness blossomed.

After earning her degree, Amanda became a key figure in the Winnebago County Public Health department, where she served as the Harm Reduction Program Coordinator. In this role, she was instrumental in expanding critical services such as naloxone distribution, syringe exchange programs, and addiction support services. Her work directly impacted the lives of countless individuals in the community, providing them with resources to navigate the challenges of substance use while simultaneously working to reduce stigma around addiction.

Amanda’s colleagues and community members have described her as a “transformative force” in the field of public health. Tributes on X, including posts from @quickmatters and @Grhavit, highlight her as a “dedicated advocate” who worked relentlessly to create a safer, healthier environment for people affected by addiction. Through her work, Amanda not only changed lives but also provided hope to those who had long been marginalized and overlooked.

Community Engagement and Personal Passions

Amanda’s passion for her work extended beyond the confines of her professional role. She was deeply involved in the Oshkosh community, volunteering at local shelters, advocating for mental health resources, and supporting programs aimed at destigmatizing addiction. Amanda’s presence was always felt at community events, such as health fairs and environmental cleanups along the Fox River, where she worked to improve the community and foster a sense of togetherness.

Her commitment to service also extended to her love for animals. As a supporter of the Oshkosh Area Humane Society, Amanda actively volunteered her time, fostering rescue pets and helping them find new homes. Her nurturing spirit was evident in her work with animals, as she demonstrated the same love and care for them as she did for her community members.

Friends and colleagues recall Amanda for her warmth, humor, and unwavering positivity. Whether it was enjoying a cup of coffee at New Moon Café or hiking in Menominee Park, Amanda’s love for Oshkosh was apparent in every aspect of her life. She had the rare ability to make those around her feel valued, seen, and heard, and her infectious smile brightened the days of everyone she encountered.

A Heartbreaking Loss

The circumstances surrounding Amanda’s passing remain private, respecting her family’s wishes. However, the impact of her loss is undeniable, and the community’s grief is palpable. Winnebago County Public Health released a heartfelt statement expressing their deep sorrow, noting, “Her loss will be deeply felt not only in our department but throughout our community.” Her colleagues have also shared their memories of her dedication, and the void left by her absence will be difficult to fill.

A growing memorial has been established outside the Winnebago County Public Health office at 112 Otter Avenue, with flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages from the community. This memorial stands as a testament to the profound impact Amanda had on the lives of those around her. The tributes pouring in from the community reflect the deep affection and admiration she inspired during her life.

In addition to the memorial, a community vigil has been planned to honor Amanda’s life and her contributions to public health and harm reduction. The vigil will be an opportunity for the community to come together, reflect on Amanda’s legacy, and support her grieving family.

Survived by Family and Legacy

Amanda is survived by her loving family, whose names are withheld for privacy. While they mourn the loss of a beloved daughter, sister, and friend, they take comfort in knowing that Amanda’s life was one filled with purpose, love, and service to others. Her work as a harm reduction advocate and her genuine care for those struggling with addiction has left a lasting mark on her community.

As the family navigates their grief, the Oshkosh community stands behind them, offering support and love during this difficult time. The outpouring of support from friends, colleagues, and community members serves as a reminder of the incredible impact Amanda had on her community and the many lives she touched.

Memorial Service and Donations

A memorial service for Amanda Tennyson is scheduled for July 29, 2025, at 3 p.m. at Konrad-Behlman Funeral Home, located at 402 Waugoo Ave., Oshkosh. The service will provide a space for friends and family to gather, share memories, and celebrate Amanda’s vibrant life. Visitation will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, Amanda’s family has requested that donations be made to the Oshkosh Area Humane Society or a local harm reduction program in her name. These donations will reflect Amanda’s commitment to compassion, community health, and her lifelong passion for helping others.

The community’s plans for a memorial track meet at Oshkosh High School will also serve as a celebration of Amanda’s love for fitness and the impact she had on the lives of those who knew her. The event will bring together people from all walks of life to honor her spirit and legacy.

A Legacy of Compassion, Service, and Hope

Amanda Tennyson’s life was a testament to the power of compassion, dedication, and selflessness. Her work in harm reduction, her advocacy for mental health resources, and her commitment to her community were all fueled by a deep desire to help others. She saw the best in people and worked tirelessly to ensure that those struggling with substance use and addiction received the support they needed to heal and thrive.

Though her life was cut short, Amanda’s legacy will continue to inspire others to live with kindness, empathy, and a commitment to helping those in need. Her death has left a void that will be deeply felt, but her impact on the Oshkosh community and the lives she touched will never be forgotten.

As the community comes together to honor Amanda’s life and memory, her commitment to harm reduction, public health, and community service will remain a guiding light for future generations. Through donations, scholarships, and continued support for harm reduction initiatives, Amanda’s legacy will live on, inspiring others to carry forward the work she was so passionate about.

Conclusion: A Life Well-Lived and Never Forgotten

Amanda Tennyson’s passing marks the loss of an extraordinary woman whose life was defined by service, compassion, and dedication to improving the lives of others. While her absence leaves an aching void in her family and the Oshkosh community, her legacy will continue to live on in the work she did, the lives she touched, and the love she shared with those around her. The community of Oshkosh, along with Winnebago County Public Health, will continue to honor Amanda’s memory and the incredible work she did for harm reduction, community health, and the betterment of others.