Jessie Theresa Solis

Theresa was born in Greeley on November 2, 1949, and was the daughter of the late Daniel Solis and Carmen Solis. Theresa graduated from Greeley Central High School in 1967 and attended Aims Community College where she obtained her Associate’s Degree. She was employed at the University of Northern Colorado Library for 35 years in government documents where she was highly respected by her students and left an impact on many.

Theresa was passionate about her family and faith. She will be remembered for her baking, cooking, and genuine love for her family and friends. She was the anchor in her family, constantly motivating, uplifting, and supporting them. Her family carries many memories of Theresa, especially her sense of humor and contagious laugh.

Theresa was a highly contributing member of Greeley and was passionate about helping in many organizations and communities. She was devoted to making a difference in every person’s life that she encountered. Theresa advocated for rights, peace, and equality. She was involved in resistance to unjust causes at UNC. She advocated for farm workers and brought them first aid materials, clothing, and food. She helped Umas Mecha and students at the Cesar Chavez Cultural Center and was involved in the founding of Al Frente de Lucha with Elaine Schmitz. Theresa was an active member in the struggle for justice for Chicanos/as in Greeley with Dr. José Calderon, Eddie Guerrero, Teresa McNeil, and many others. Theresa Solis was an activist for justice for her people.

Theresa met the love of her life, James Allen Cooley, 70, around two years ago and they were inseparable. They were brought together by God and had a beautiful relationship full of adventure, love, and care. James and Theresa displayed a love that can only be described as one of a kind. James passed alongside Theresa, as they were called home together.

Surviving are her two children James Solis and Carmen Solis; grandchildren Izik Rubio, Veronica Solis, Jesse Corral, and Nevaeh Corral, Anthony Solis, Christiana Solis, James Solis, and Jordan Limas; 12 great-grandchildren; Sisters Betty Angela (Gilbert) Sifuentez, Margaret (Eugene) Edmaiston, Evelyn Marie Solis, Elizabeth Ann (Luis) Segura; Brothers Michael Anthony Solis, Daniel Jr. (Auggie) Solis, Rick Solis, and Theresa and Jim’s beloved pet Dutchess.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her granddaughter Christy Solis, and her brother Alfred Solis.

A memorial service will be held for both Jessie Theresa Solis and James Allen Cooley at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 20 at Allnutt Funeral, with a reception to follow.