Theresa Blanche Schaefer

July 9, 1938 – June 24, 2026

SUMMERFIELD, Fla. — Theresa lived a life defined by quiet strength, enduring grace and unwavering devotion to her family. She shared 67 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband and best friend. They worked side by side through every season of life, raising a family, building homes, embracing new adventures and creating a future together.

Together they embarked on many adventures, including relocating their young family from Hornell, N.Y., to Belleview, Fla., where they created a home filled with love, stability, laughter and treasured traditions. Whether gathering around the table every night for dinner or making holidays special with her famous sugar cookies, she understood that life’s greatest gifts were found in simple moments shared together.

While raising four children, she enjoyed a successful career in banking, earning the respect of colleagues and customers through her professionalism, integrity and dedication. She retired in The Villages, Fla., where she and her husband enjoyed golfing, swimming and making memories with family and friends.

Her greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother, proud grandmother to seven grandchildren and cherished great-grandmother to 13. She faithfully attended dance recitals, sporting events, family gatherings and countless milestones, always offering a smile and unconditional love.

Those who knew her will remember her gentle spirit, quiet elegance, strong faith, wonderful sense of humor and the way she made others feel calm, accepted and loved. She taught by example, demonstrating that true strength is found in kindness, consistency and caring for others.

For all who were blessed to know and love her, one truth remains unchanged: She was there. Always there. That gift shaped her family and will continue to do so for generations to come.

She is survived by her husband, David Schaefer; their children, Deanna Allen, Barbara Andrews (Mike), Lynn Angulo (Moises), Francine Johannesen (Chad); seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters Janet Schmick and Elizabeth Myers; a brother, Robert Oyler; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

A private Celebration of Life will be held to honor her.