Teresa Ann Thomas, born October 29, 1955, passed peacefully on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at St. John’s Hospital. Teresa was preceded in death by her parents, John A. and Theresa M. Thomas; sisters, Joan Flentje, and Shirley Angwin; niece, Julie Novak; and nephew, Troy Angwin. She is survived by her sister, Tara Quimby (Mike); nieces, Marcia Lasiter, Sara Money, Tracy Foley, Amy Raikes and Casey Shirley; nephews, Doug Flentje and Todd Flentje; and many great-nieces and nephews, and dear friends.
If you knew Teresa, you knew her dogs were her babies. She was preceded in death by Tasha, Maverick, Maggie, Shelbie, Gracie and Roxy and is survived by her beloved Manchester Terrier, Tori.
Teresa was a graduate of Springfield High School and a retired employee of the Secretary of State of Illinois. In earlier years, she enjoyed local events, live music, and travel adventures with friends and family across the U.S. and to Mexico, Italy, and the French Riviera.
Teresa was once known for her care of fish aquariums at home and in establishments around town but then found her true passion as a breeder and caregiver of beautiful singing Canaries. She was an active member and the Vice President of the Illini Bird Fanciers Club where she made many good friends.
Teresa also loved gardening to create a sanctuary in her own backyard. Her nurturing spirit also applied to her friendships. Neighbors became friends. Friends became family. Teresa cherished long, heartfelt conversations, in person or over the phone, and she was always willing to listen with an open heart and help however she could.
Teresa bravely overcame cancer in 2022, but her body could not endure a second battle when it returned this year. We take comfort in knowing she is now at peace—free, loved, and forever remembered.
Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life, Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, Illinois beginning with visitation at 1:30 pm followed by a memorial service at 3:00 pm.
Those who wish may direct memorial contributions to the Illini Bird Fanciers P.O. Box 13006 Springfield, IL 62791 or the Animal Protective League 1001 Taintor Rd. Springfield, IL 62702.
