Theresa Lynne Embrey

Theresa Lynne Embrey, 60, of Poteau, passed away Tuesday, June 8, 2021, in Fort Smith, Ark.

On April 28, 1961, things were almost perfect. President John F. Kennedy had just taken office and Pope John XXIII was leading the Catholic Church. Unfortunately, the Pittsburgh Steelers were reeling from their dismal 6-8 season. What the Steelers needed to start the greatest National Football League dynasty was an unfaltering fan. In comes a comet of love, dependability and sass to perfect it. Enter Theresa “TeTe” (Reidy) Embrey.

Born in Poteau to James and Lucille Reidy, Theresa was one of six boisterous children. She thought of herself as a hippie. She didn’t always give out flowers, but always gifts from the heart. If you spent any time with her, you probably received one or witnessed the act.

A walking, talking peace sign, “TeTe” loved more in her 60 years than anyone could in 120. As your strongest defender, a teacher and a person, Theresa pulled people toward her like the world’s most powerful tie-dyed magnet. She loved and was loved by many people, but the luckiest were the ones closest to her.

Some of those people who are no longer with us are her sister Mary Reidy, parents Lucille and James Reidy, Beverly “Granny Biggie” Embrey, brotherin-law Larry Reidy and sister-in-law Debra McDonough.

She is survived by her husband Stephen, children Heath Embrey and Laura Johns, Ryan Embrey, Ian Embrey and Allison Embrey and Steven Croswell, son-in-love Brent Carroll, sisters Sheryl McClure, Nancy Howard and Kathy Reidy, brother Kevin Reidy, two grandchildren, “the lights of her life,” Austin Watson and Artemis Embrey, a host of beloved nieces, nephews, greatnieces and great-nephews and her ‘children-in-spirit’ — all her former students whom she loved dearly.

So many people and businesses helped and provided love to the family. Words cannot express the appreciation felt by her family. They extend a very special thanks to Poteau Public Schools and families and her nurses and caregivers at Traditions and Encompass Health.

A memorial service under the direction of Evans and Miller Funeral Home will be 2 p.m. Thursday June 17, 2021, at the Seventh-Eighth Grade Academic Center on Mockingbird Lane.

In lieu of flowers, do something kind for someone else today and every day. If you prefer to give a monetary gift, please send donations to the LeFlore County Historical Society, P.O. Box 457, Poteau, OK 74953.