Theresa Ida Messier

Theresa Ida Messier was born on November 27, 1935, in Newburgh, New York, and passed away on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025. Throughout her life, Theresa was surrounded by the love of those she cherished and touched countless lives through her warmth, intelligence, and remarkable career journey. Shortly after graduating high school, she began working at the United States Military Academy at West Point. During her time there, she collaborated with one of the generals to help write a mathematics book for future cadets and was permitted to sit in on actual classes - an extraordinary and rare opportunity for a woman at that time, decades before women were formally integrated into the Academy’s academic programs. Theresa later married, raised two daughters, and lived throughout the United States, embracing new chapters with enthusiasm and grace. Her diverse professional life included roles at Colony Square, the Buena Park Visitor and Convention Bureau, working as a restaurateur alongside her former spouse, Robert Messier (who predeceased her in March 2000), serving as an art teacher (her paintings showcased her unbelievable talents), and eventually building a fulfilling career as a travel agent. Travel became one of her greatest joys, allowing her to explore incredible places and form lasting friendships wherever she went. At Theresa's house you immediately recognized she was an anglophile (love of everything British). Her travels back and forth to England and all the friends that she made (including living there for a while) gave her great joy - and lasting memories.

Theresa is survived by her sisters, Bettina Muro (predeceased by her spouse, Ernest Muro), and Nancy Adair (spouse, Jim Adair). She is also survived by her daughter, Debbie Vandeventer (spouse, Larry Vandeventer). Her devoted daughter, Denise Garrett Pierre (spouse, David Pierre) lovingly supported Theresa and remained by her side through her final days. She is also survived by her grandson, Jason Vandeventer (spouse Sally Vandeventer), great grandchildren Ariella and Castiel; her beloved granddaughter, Nicole Vandeventer Hanks (spouse, J.D. Hanks); and great-grandchildren Jaden, Cooper, and Marley and beloved grandson, Cory Densler (spouse, Kira Densler), and great-grandchildren Isaiah and Ezra. Theresa was predeceased by her grandson, Cameron Densler, March 31, 2018.

A loving remembrance to all of her extended family members and dearest friends - who became family. Denise recited each of your names in the hours of her passing so she could feel the love and place it within her heart.

As Theresa requested to be cremated a memorial service is being discussed some time mid-March 2026. Details will be shared as arrangements are finalized. Those who wish to be notified or attend are invited to leave a message through the provided link or contact Denise at [email protected] for future updates or correspondence. Please, cherish and remember Theresa Messier for her brilliant smile, infectious laughter, and boundless love.

She loved you all and always remember this, keep smiling - “because she was here”.