Survived by Bob Tovias (Sandi), Jim Tovias (Martha), Diana Tovias, seven grandchildren, and twelve great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Joe, her mother Herminia, and six siblings.
Theresa was born, raised, and spent her entire life in Santa Paula. She married her high school sweetheart and together they raised their three children here. After her children were grown, she started her career as a Teachers Aide at Grace Thille School. She was a positive influence on many children that crossed her path. She retired after 30 years and would smile when former students would recognize her when she was out and about.
Theresa devoted herself to her family and was known for her homemade tortillas. Often times, Theresa would have a line of neighborhood kids waiting for her fresh warm tortillas. She helped raise her grandchildren and great grandchildren, keeping them in her home during school holidays and summer breaks. Upon her husband’s death, Theresa traveled a bit but her greatest joy was her glass of Chardonnay with her sisters and would preface each glass with saying “It’s five o’clock somewhere!”
Services will commence with a Rosary to start at 9:30am on Monday, January 6, 2025 at St. Sebastian Church located at 235 N 9th St in Santa Paula, followed by Mass at 10am, and Committal Services immediately following at Pierce Brothers Santa Paula Cemetery, 380 Cemetery Rd, Santa Paula.
