THERESA EMBREY

Theresa Lynne Embrey, 60, of Poteau, OK passed away Tuesday, June 8, 2021 in Ft. Smith, AR. 

          On April 28, 1961, things were almost perfect.  President Kennedy had just taken office and Pope John XXIII was leading the Catholic Church.  Unfortunately, the Steelers were reeling from their dismal 6-8 season.  What the Steelers needed to start the greatest NFL 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, OK to James & Lucille Reidy, she 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, as a teacher, and as 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 and parents, Lucille & James Reidy, Beverly “Granny Biggie” Embrey; brother in law, Larry Howard; sister in law, Debra McDonough.

          She is survived by her husband, Stephen; children, Heath Embrey & Laura Johns, Ryan Embrey, Ian Embrey, Allison Embrey & Steven Crosswell; son in love, Brent Carroll; sisters, Sheryl McClure, Nancy Howard, Kathy Reidy; brother, Kevin Reidy; two grandchildren “the lights of her life”, Austin Watson and Artemis Embrey; a host of beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews; 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; her nurses and caregivers at Traditions and Encompass Health.

          Memorial services will be 2 pm, Thursday, June 17, 2021 at the new 7^th & 8^th Grade Center on Mockingbird Ln., Poteau. 

           

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