Theresa Ann James-Hotchkiss

Theresa Hotchkiss (Terri, to many) joined her father in eternal rest on Monday, February 29, 2016. Though unexpected, she passed quickly and peacefully in her Madison home. She is the beloved wife of Keith Hotchkiss, adored daughter of Anna (Amruso) James and Louis Paul James IX (predeceased), cherished sister to many siblings, second mother to many nieces and nephews, and treasured friend to many saddened hearts.

Theresa was born in Blue Ridge, Georgia on March 18, 1957. While she lived some of her childhood in Derby, Connecticut, as well as other places, most of her life was settled in Madison where she graduated from Daniel Hand High School in 1975. Her passion was for food, and she would spend her life cooking, loving, and nurturing all who had permanent reservations in her very big heart. Likewise, she would refine her cooking skills at several culinary institutions and practice her craft as a chef at The Dolly Madison, The Wharf, and several other restaurants.

Besides her beloved husband, Keith, Theresa leaves behind her adoring mother, Anna James of Clinton; her many loving siblings, Louis Paul James X and wife Rosemary of Pennsylvania, Cynthia Gode and husband Gregory of Killingworth, Regina Carri and husband Dominic of East Haddam, Patricia Barba and husband James of Madison, Katrina James of Clinton, Alicia Duncanson and husband Scott of Killingworth; and many endearing nieces and nephews, all of whose hearts and bellies will surely miss the love, the laugh, and the life-giving ways of this extra-ordinary and beloved woman. Rest in peace, Chef Terri.

Friends are welcome to calling hours on Saturday, March 5, 2016 at 1-3 p.m. at Swan Funeral Home 825 Boston Post Rd. Madison, CT 06443. A Celebration of Life will directly follow at Swan Funeral Home from 3-4 p.m. A private burial will be planned. You may visit www.swanfuneralhomemadison.com for tributes and condolences.