Therese Starr

Thérèse (Terry) Lucienne Gatinois Cavalieri Starr, age 89, of Springboro, Ohio, passed away Monday, June 17, 2024, at Hillspring of Springboro. Thérèse was born in Reims, France, on July 24, 1934, to the late Marcel Rene and Adrienne Gabrielle (Hurstel) Gatinois. She immigrated to the United States along with her parents in 1948, initially taking up residence in Buffalo, New York.

In addition to her parents, Thérèse was preceded in death by her sister, Lucienne Gatinois Costanzo. Her nephews Anthony, Richard and Donald Costanzo were loved and held a special place in her heart.

Thérèse is survived by her five children: Darlene J. (David) Barber, Kathleen Lou (David) Frederick, Christine Cavalieri, Frank J. Cavalieri and Michael M. Cavalieri; grandchildren: Lisa N. (Jeffrey) Metzcar, Christa M. Stepp, Beth Ann (Jon) Varley, Kelly S. Frederick, Jacob D. Frederick, Derek (Danielle) Cavalieri, Jon (Christina) Knaier, and Casey Staas; great grandchildren: Jessica N. Metzcar, Brooke M. Metzcar, Wyatt E. Stepp, Jake A. Varley, Nate J. Varley, Zoe G. Frederick, Mia Cavalieri, PJ, Peyton, Sophia Knaier, Scarlett Knaier, Andrew and Kayden Stass.

Special mention to long-time friends and chosen family, Martha and John Hutton—thank you both for caring for and loving our Mom. For sharing your children and grandchildren with her. Also to Leroy Jones, a friend who adopted Mom’s beloved poodle, Princess, when Mom could no longer care for her. A friend who would surprise her on her Birthdays with the “most delicious Cakes and Cupcakes in the whole world!”

Therese was a Springboro resident for twenty-five years. She enjoyed singing, dancing, and feeding the wild birds that came to her apartment window at Springboro Commons. She made many friends at the Commons, and charmed other residents with her unique humor and kindness. In the cold months of fall and winter, she would make a huge pot of soup and knock on residents’ doors yelling “Soups on. Bring your bowls!” Who does that? Mom did!

Our tribute: A Mother with so much love, more love than the Earth can stand. You had it tougher than most but fought like a lion...you are now at peace in Heaven with your mother and sister. Although we were not the best at showing how much we loved you and how grateful we were to you for all the sacrifices you made to provide for your children. Upon reflection, your innocence was your biggest flaw and contributed to your suffering...and now all that has been wiped away with the mercy of God letting you exhale and be at peace. We love you. We love you. We love you, Mom. We love you so very much.