Theresa Deyong Reay

Theresa was born on March 3, 1951 to Phyllis and Donald DeYong in Wahoo, Nebraska. As her mother was a Department of the Army civilian, the family lived in various places during her youth. She attended Hatch (New Mexico) Elementary School and graduated as valedictorian of her senior class from Widefield High School (Colorado) in 1969. She went on to study psychology and early childhood education at Southern Colorado State College (now CSU Pueblo), where she graduated in 1973. After graduation, she worked as an education counselor at Ft Carson, near Colorado Springs.

In 1973, she met Roderick Reay, and they wed in 1975. For the next 29 years they lived in many different places, as required by Rod’s US Air Force career. She gave birth to their four children in various locations: Sarah and Jessica (Phoenix, AZ), Katherine (Republic of Panama), and Andrew (Eglin AFB, FL).

Theresa was an incredible mother, actively involved in all aspects of her children’s growth and development. At times she was a Girl Scout leader, Sunday School teacher, and frequent classroom volunteer. Of what she was the proudest was having every one of her children, all products of public education, earn college scholarships, go on to earn advanced degrees, and become successful, contributing members of society, with beautiful families of their own – a lasting tribute to her motherhood.

After USAF retirement in 2004, Theresa and Rod settled in the Siesta Hills neighborhood of Albuquerque. Her empty nest gave opportunity for an interest in exercise. For several years she could be seen on her twice daily walks through the streets of Siesta Hills. Theresa was also an accomplished crafter and seamstress and enjoyed shopping and interior design. No matter what project she started, she always excelled.

Theresa was predeceased by her parents. She is survived by her husband, four children, six grandchildren, one sister, and two brothers.

The family will host calling hours at Theresa and Rod’s home in Siesta Hills on Saturday, October 19, from noon to 2 PM.