Theresa Hankins, 89, loving wife of the late Daniel; cherished mother of Steven (Terry) Hankins, Mark (Catherine) Hankins, Beth (David) Freeman, Randy (Linda) Hankins, and Glen (Heather) Hankins; devoted grandmother of Lisa (Mike), Hannah (Eric) Annalise, Allison, Olivia, Rachel (Jacob), Cody (Elizabeth), Autumn (Austin), Hunter (Abigail), Jared (Emma), Jake, Logan, Calvin, Paxton, and the late Levi; treasured great-grandma of thirteen; sister of Rosie, the late Angie, the late Mikey, the late Lucy, the late Marie, the late Richie, the late Lizzie, and the late Frankie; and treasured aunt and cousin of many.

Theresa Hankins was a gentle, joyful soul who made everyone around her feel loved. She was one of a kind - smart, funny, generous, active, creative, positive, and full of life. She was extravagantly generous, showing her love through giving gifts; at Christmas and birthdays, she would present huge bags filled with gifts and serve Tombstone pizzas, ice cream, candy and always lots of cake. Only 5 feet tall, she was remarkably athletic - taking up marathon running in her 40's and teaching aerobic, spinning, line dancing and kick-boxing classes into her 80's. She was forever young, and became Certified as a personal trainer at 70. She loved to bargain hunt (Dollar store and Kohls) and fancied bright, sequined clothes - outfits that reflected her vibrant personality. She was everyone's friend - people were drawn to her positive spirit. She always saw the best in others and was generous with compliments. She loved to talk and was a great listener. She was passionate about her family and was never happier than when her house was overcrowded with family to feed, to laugh with, and to love. She was her husband's best friend, and most ardent supporter - they were inseparable until his passing in 2014. She missed him greatly and looked forward to being reunited in glory. Theresa's faith was uncomplicated and deep; she personified the golden rule and preached the Gospel with her actions. Her legacy is love, living forever in the hearts of those who knew her.

A visitation for Theresa will be held on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at South Park Church, 1330 N. Courtland Ave., Park Ridge, IL 60068 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Her Celebration of Life will be held the same night at 7:00 p.m. Interment will be private for family only.

For additional info please call 847-823-5122.