Therese Ellen Windt

Therese Ellen Windt died on July 5, 2013 at home with her family. Born on March 27, 1958, she was Class Valedictorian of her Hayfield High School class of 1976. She went on to University of North Carolina, where she graduated with honors, earning a degree in Economics. Working toward her ultimate career goal—Secretary of Health and Human Services—Therese took a job after graduation at the Brookings Institute think tank before entering UCLA’s Master’s Program in Public Health. She pursued her degree while working full-time as an analyst at Cedar Sinai Medical Center. One month before completing work on her master’s, she experienced a traumatic brain injury. Doctors predicted she would not walk or talk again. Aided by her own determination and the love and support of her parents and siblings during five years of rehab, she proved them wrong. Not only did Therese walk and talk again, for 22 years, she held an analyst position at the United States Department of Agriculture. During her time at USDA, she chaired a committee for employees with disabilities. She was chosen for a special assignment with Health and Human Services to head a project for disabled employees. With a life-long commitment to education, Therese earned a Master’s Degree in 2000 from George Washington University in Information Systems. Outside of work, Therese was an active volunteer and leader. She served as President of her Toastmasters Club and provided leadership to the local head-injured group. As a member of Mount Vernon Presbyterian church, she participated in Agape Reservoir, a ministry for people with special needs. She also participated in the Burke Presbyterian Church TreeHouse, a ministry that advocates for the rights and responsibilities of persons with disabilities in the life of the church. Most of all Therese valued time with her family and friends. They will continue to be inspired by her generous spirit, her zest for life, her belief in education, her determination, her perseverance, her gratitude and her loving soul. Therese is survived by her mother and father, Dolores and James Windt, her siblings, Fran (Scott) Akridge, Gerard (Julie)and John (Kelly) as well her nieces and nephews, Jesse, Jared, Jaime and Joshua Windt. Extended family includes Michael and Janet Muto and family, the Boretti families, the Mazzola families and the Tassinari family. In addition, the many friends who made the journey with Therese are included. Services for Therese will be held at Demaine Funeral Home, 5308 Backlick Rd, Springfield, VA on Sunday, July 14 at 2pm. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the OVARIAN CANCER RESEARCH FUND (ocrf.org) or the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition(ovarian.org).