Theresa Maria Pantera Hayes, 86, of East Aurora, NY returned to our Father on February 23 surrounded by her loving family. She was born to the late Dr. Matthew Pantera and Phyllis Pantera on July 16, 1927 in South Buffalo. Theresa is predeceased by her brother, Dr. Matthew J. Pantera, Jr. (Margaret).
Theresa attended Mount Mercy Academy, Marywood College and the Juilliard School of Music where she pursued her passion for music. She shared her joy for music by singing with the Buffalo Choral Arts Society, teaching at Mount Mercy Academy, directing the choir at Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, and mentoring many students.
In 1954 Theresa married the love of her life, Dr. Donald L. Hayes, and together they raised seven beautiful children. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother of eight, and great grandmother of two. Her family and faith formed the fabric of her life.
Due to Theresa’s exceptional charity and kindness to the Franciscan Friars, she received an affiliation to the Province of the Most Holy Name of Jesus of the Order of Friars Minor. She will share fully in all the prayers, masses and other good works of the Friars.
Theresa is survived by her devoted husband, Dr. Donald L. Hayes, her loving family, Kathleen M. (Steven Holtkamp), Therese A., Donald M. (Mary Theresa), Christopher J. (Dianne), Mary C. (Harvey Shymanski), Elizabeth E. (Dana Gardner) and Christina M. (Terry Hinman). She is also survived by her grandchildren (Brendan, Theresa, Ryan, Donny, Sarah, Connor, Melissa, and Emily) and great grandchildren (Benjamin and Leah).
Family and friends may call at Wood Funeral Home, 784 Main Street, East Aurora, NY, February 24, 7-9 p.m., and February 25, 4-8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, 510 Oakwood Ave, East Aurora, NY, February 26, 9:30 a.m. Interment will be held at a later date at Christ the King Seminary, Knox Road, East Aurora, NY.
Theresa’s care during her final days was lovingly facilitated by Fox Run of Orchard Park, NY. The family wishes to express their utmost gratitude to all of Theresa’s dedicated caregivers. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations to the Fox Run Community Fund or Christ the King Seminary. Please share your condolences at www.woodfh.com
Arrangements under the direction of Wood Funeral Home, East Aurora, New York.
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