"Be encouraged by [her] passing and legacy. Instead of crying, live an inspired, spiritual and happy life like [she] did when [she] was here.  Live each day with encouragement knowing that [she] is proud and smiling down on you from Heaven."

--Matt Fraser

Mrs. Theresa Myrtle Degwitz (née Shade), of Hobe Sound, FL, passed away on Saturday, February 17, 2018 at the age of 84.

Theresa was born to parents Edward and Theresa Shade on September 17, 1933 in Edison, NJ. She grew up as the eldest of seven.  Known to many of her friends as Joy, and her family as GG (Great-Grandmother), Theresa spent most of her life taking care of others. She was a loving, compassionate, and giving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She will be missed.

Theresa is survived by her daughter, Susan Martin and her spouse, Rob Martin; her siblings, Evelyn Shade, Diane Kologi, Richard Shade, and Judy Boyce; her granddaughter, Danielle Mead and her spouse, Tricia Jayson; her great-grandchildren, James Mead, Jaxson and MacKenzie Joy Kross. She is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Degwitz; her brothers, James and Robert Shade; her great-granddaughter, Miranda Mead.

(Per the deceased's request, there will be no service or viewing).  Theresa was adamant that she did not want any "fuss," or tears; she wanted her family and friends to celebrate her life.  Months before Theresa's death, her granddaughter introduced "gram" to Snapchat.  The above photo captures gram's beautiful spirit and sense of humor; gram would get a kick out of the fact that this photo was part of her obituary.

Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service to celebrate and honor Theresa's life on Saturday, March 3 ^rd at 1:00 p.m. at 8925 SE Bahama Circle, Hobe Sound, Florida 33455.  The family is grateful for the condolences, but declines flowers and asks that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to the St. Jude Children's Hospital in Theresa's name.  A memorial page has been created in Theresa's name.

Condolences and remembrances may be shared with the family through this online guestbook.