Therese Gara

**In Loving Memory of Therese C. Gara**

November 25, 1935 – July 16, 2025

     It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Therese C. Gara, at the age of 89. Her life was one of dedication, love, and compassion, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

     Therese is survived by her loving children: Maureen Crocker (Ben) and their son Gene; Daniel Gara (Liz Weber) and their children, Genevieve, Aidan, Jack, Ann Rojas (Marcelino) and their son Sherman, and Neve; Mary Kay Dreyfus (Joshua) and their sons, Daniel and Alex; Sheila Finnegan (Michael); and Maggie McComb (Tony) and their sons, Finn and Braden. Therese’s family was her pride and joy, and she took great delight in their accomplishments and their happiness.

     Born to Michael and Margaret O’Hara Quinn, Therese was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 56 years, Thomas J. Gara. Therese’s heart was also heavy with the loss of her sons: Michael, James, Thomas, and Martin and her beloved sister, Mary Quinn Porod, who she kept in her thoughts dearly throughout her life.

     Therese’s professional life was as remarkable as her personal one. She trained as a nurse at St. Francis Hospital in Evanston, where she cultivated a lifelong career in cardiac care. Her commitment to her patients was unwavering, and her gentle spirit had a profound effect on everyone she encountered. Colleagues and patients alike remember her for her extraordinary kindness, remarkable skill, and willingness to always lend a helping hand. Therese dedicated her life to caring for others, embodying the true essence of a healer.

     An avid sports fan, Therese had a particular affection for Chicago teams, proudly supporting her White Sox, a testament to her deep-rooted connections to the south side of the city. Whether cheering in the stands or watching from home, she embraced the spirit of Chicago with vibrant enthusiasm.

     Throughout her life, Therese was not just a mother and a nurse but also a pillar of strength, wisdom, and love for her family and friends. A devout Catholic, her warm smile, caring heart, and spirited personality touched countless lives. Those who were fortunate enough to know her can carry forward her legacy in the way they treat others—with compassion, understanding, and love.

     We welcome family and friends to St. Mary of the Woods Church on Monday, July 21 for visitation beginning at 10AM followed by a funeral mass at 11 AM. Interment All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Misericordia Home for the developmentally disabled are appreciated.

Therese will be profoundly missed but forever remembered with love.