Teresa Perez Teran

Teresa Perez Teran, 74, passed peacefully on Feb. 9, 2018 in loving care of her husband and family, after 23 years battling cancer. Teresa was born May 11, 1943, in San Elizario, TX, to Maria Loya and Enrique Perez.

Teresa was an artist, playwright and advocate for Hispanic women in her community, in Des Moines, Iowa and in San Elizario, TX. Teresa was an inspiration to her husband Miguel. Her spirit was the driving force that made many original ideas become reality. She liked to say: ‘Si se puede’.

Teresa always gave back to her community. As an active member of LULAC council #306, in Des Moines, she co-founded Grupo de Mujeres Hispanas which still inspires Latinas to advocate for cultural heritage and tradition. Upon returning to her beloved San Elizario in 1988, Teresa co-founded The San Elizario Genealogy and Historical Society which led to community initiatives including her vision of honoring founding families, rebuilding the Placita and securing the preservation of history for generations to come.

Teresa is survived by husband, Miguel Teran, children, Michael, Elizabeth, John, Steve, Monica and Omar, their spouses, twelve grandchildren, brothers and sister, Henry, Lily and Antonio Perez. Teresa is preceded in death by brother Raul Perez.

Visitation will be Monday Feb. 12 from 5-8 pm, Vigil at 6pm. at San Elizario Presidio Chapel. Funeral mass will be Tuesday at 1 pm at Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, followed by interment at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.