Teresa Karen Whitehall

Teresa Karen Whitehall, born on May 22, 1956, in Bangor, Maine, to Virgil Whitehall and Carole Whitehall (nee Smith) where she and her parents lived in Bath, as Virgil was stationed at the nearby Air Force base. From Maine, the family moved west and settled in Portland, Oregon. From Portland the family eventually settled on the Oregon coast where Teresa grew up.

Graduating from Siuslaw High School in 1974, Teresa continued her academic journey at Western Oregon University in Monmouth, Oregon, earning a bachelor's degree in 1978. This educational foundation set the stage for her lifelong career in teaching, a profession she approached with enthusiasm and commitment.

Teresa began her teaching career in Alsea, Oregon and spent the majority of her years educating and inspiring students in the Central School District. Her role as a physical education teacher allowed her to share her love for sports and fitness, while her experience as a seasoned volleyball coach showcased her leadership and mentoring skills. Teresa also served as the Get Fit Coordinator for the Central School District for 3 years as well as the secretary for the Teaceher's Union for more than 10 years prior to her retirement.

As Teresa neared retirement, she embraced her entrepreneurial spirit by becoming a small business owner and a Stampin' Up Demonstrator. Through this venture, she continued to teach and share her artistic talents in paper arts and instructional workshops, bringing joy and creativity to many.

Family was always at the heart of Teresa's life. She deeply loved her family and never missed an opportunity to support and celebrate their achievements. She and her partner, Kathleen Kinkel, embarked on numerous outdoor adventures, making the most of nature's beauty through hiking, hunting, and wildlife projects in eastern Oregon. Teresa's love for nature also extended to yearly week-long camping trips with friends and the joy she found in gardening, bringing color and jubilation to her neighborhood.

An enthusiastic traveler, Tersa explored far and wide, from traveling in Europe to rafting the Grand Canyon twice, to a cross-country drive from coast to coast with her niece and sister. Her spirit of adventure and love for exploration were ever-present.

Teresa's gift for baking allowed her to spread kindness and love through her delicious treats, especially her famous cupcakes and cookies. Her annual holiday cookie open house became a cherished tradition among friends, as they gathered to enjoy her delightful creations.

Tersa's life was a beautiful tapestry of love, adventure, and creativity. She is survived by her lifelong partner Kathleen Kinkel; her siblings Michael Whitehall, HI; Patricia Nores, Albany; Timothy Whitehall (Sueanne), Bend; and Tamara Whitehall (Paul Gilkes), WA; her aunt Anita Johnson, Machias, Maine; her nieces and nephews Sandra Roberts (Drew); Michael Nores, Albany; Suzanne Konold (Brandon), WA; Tara Whitehall, La Pine; TJ Whitehall (Shaenee), Redmond; and many grand-nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her beloved dog, Bella, her cat, Odie, and many dear friends.

Teresa Karen Whitehall passed away on October 19, 2024, in Salem, Oregon. She leaves behind a trail of kindness, sprinkled with handmade cards, sweet treats, and love. Teresa's memory will be cherished by all who knew her.