TERESA ANN (WALDER) SMITH

Teresa Ann Smith (also known as Tess) of Yucca Valley, California, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly, on June 24, 2022, at the age of 55 years old.

Teresa was born in Orangeburg, South Carolina on October 14, 1966, and was the fifth child in a family of eight children. During her early years, she and her family lived in a variety of areas and states, permanently settling in Southern California in 1973. 

Teresa experienced a wonderful childhood, centered on family outings and a home filled with love. She graduated from California High School in Whittier, CA, in 1985. Tess later led a successful career, in a male-dominated field, which required much travel. She excelled in the industry, while effectively balancing the delicate role of being a mother, and overseeing the smooth operation of her household. Those aware of her career accomplishments, often referred to her as a “badass.” She inevitably retired early in life after sustaining an unfortunate injury that ultimately ended her career.

Upon retiring, she kept busy with a multitude of activities such as traveling, camping, stargazing, visits to Disneyland (among her favorite places), reading, gardening, working on home projects, watching football (forever hoping to see her team, the New York Jets, make it to the big game), and spending time with loved ones.

Tess was a wonderful mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. All in all, she was a remarkable person who was known to go the extra mile to be present at various family events and was always willing to help someone in need. While her life was sadly cut short, it was filled with a plethora of amazing memories and experiences; in essence, she lived life to the fullest.

Teresa is survived by her children; Nicholas Weller, and Rebecca Weller, as well as two grandchildren; Jordyn and Tommy Ware, her parents; Gene and Frances Walder, along with seven siblings; Tom Walder, Tim Walder, Tammy Witt, Terry Walder, Tina Lessing, Travis Walder, and Tanya Szymanski, as well as a multitude of nieces and nephews, and other family members and friends.

In honoring Teresa’s end of life choices, no funeral service will be held. An intimate celebration of life gathering, with family and close friends, will be held at a future date that is yet to be determined. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Akes Family Funeral Home of Riverside, CA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Teresa’s name may be made to The Humane Society of the United States. Donations may be made online or, if preferred, you may contribute by mail by sending a personal check or money order made payable to the HSUS to:

The Humane Society of the United States

1255 23rd Street, NW, Suite 450

Washington, DC 20037

The family of Teresa Ann Smith wishes to thank our loved ones for your unwavering support during this difficult time. Forever she will be missed, and forever she will remain in our hearts…

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