Teresa Mae Poulos

Terri (Perkins) Poulos, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, educator, mentor, and beloved “Calendar Girl,” passed away peacefully on April 27th at the age of 74. Born in Massachusetts and raised in Michigan from the age of three, she spent her life building deep connections and embracing every opportunity to learn, explore, and celebrate.

She met the love of her life, Chris Poulos, in 7th grade and shared 53 wonderful years of marriage. An only child by birth, she cultivated a wide and loving circle of friends and community through her warmth, thoughtfulness, and tireless commitment to others. She never missed a birthday, anniversary, or milestone—her friends fondly called her “Calendar Girl” for her instinct to bring people together.

She worked as a dental hygienist for 30 years before finding her true calling in teaching, helping to establish the dental hygiene program at Southwestern College and mentoring countless students along the way. Education was a cornerstone of her life—not just professionally, but personally—and she gave back through mentorship and community involvement even into retirement.

A true adventurer at heart, she traveled to nearly every continent, with cherished journeys to Australia, Alaska, China, the Galapagos Islands, Russia, and throughout Europe and the Mediterranean. She found joy in culture and music, attending concerts by Paul McCartney, Elton John, and Neil Diamond—musicians she adored. She also played the clarinet and delighted in the arts throughout her life.

A proud University of Michigan alumna, she was a devoted Wolverines fan, rarely missing a game and traveling to see them play in several championships. Fall Saturdays were often reserved for college football and cheering on her team.

Living with type 1 diabetes for over 50 years, she faced challenges with quiet resilience and grace. In retirement, she found joy in a rich array of activities—singing in a choir, joining a book club, golfing, playing mah jongg, meeting friends for coffee, mentoring local youth, and spending time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her loving husband, Chris Poulos; daughter, Lisa (Hugo) Godinez; and grandchildren, along with a wide circle of extended family, friends, former students, and community members who were inspired by her warmth, generosity, and boundless spirit.

A memorial service will be held on June 7th at Point Loma Community Presbyterian Church at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests sending donations to Breakthrough T1D (type 1 diabetes research and advocacy organization).