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Theresa Pfeiffer Obituary

Theresa Louise Pfeiffer Resided in San Jose 6/28/50 - 2/25/10 Died peacefully in her home surrounded by her family and friends. The cause of death was brain cancer. Terry is survived by her husband, James Jeffers, her daughters, Emily and Rachel, her parents, brothers and sisters and their families, as well as many other family members and friends. Wife, mother, daughter, sister, lawyer, friend, and adventurer. Terry was the eldest child of Jack and Louise Pfeiffer. She was a fifth generation Californian from the Almaden Valley. She cherished her family all her life. Family and friends will always remember Terry for her good nature, her optimistic and energetic spirit, her warm smile, and her kindness. Terry was a modest person. She spoke softly and never uttered an angry word, yet managed to speak honestly and directly. She always wore a general smile on her face and was filled with warmth, compassion, and a true love of life. She was a role model and devoted mother to her two daughters, and was immensely proud of their achievements. Terry enjoyed reading, world travels, pancakes, camping, working on the Tree Farm, learning the names of birds and plants, and all aspects of the outdoors. She loved languages and had a passion for the opera. Above all, Terry rejoiced in being with her family. For over 30 years as a lawyer, Terry was an advocate for the "little guy." Terry's keen intellect and sense of justice allowed her to speak candidly for the underprivileged and put others before herself. Terry responded to challenges with poise and equanimity. She struggled with a dreadful disease with the same grace, courage, and good cheer that characterized every aspect of her life and personality. She will be missed by everyone who had the good fortune to meet her. The family wishes to express its deep appreciation and thanks to Hospice of the Valley. Services will be held at noon on March 6th at St. Anthony's Church, 20101 McKean Road, San Jose. Donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley, 4850 Union Ave, San Jose, CA, 95124.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Jose Mercury News on Mar. 2, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
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Kate L. Jones

February 18, 2011

I am so saddened and suprised to learn of Terry's death. Twenty years ago I worked for her as law clerk and associate attorney. I had lunch with her a few years ago - she was the same quietly upbeat, kind person I enjoyed working for. She created a bright space in my memories. My heartfelt condolences. February 18, 2011

gretta roberts

June 25, 2010

Rest In Peace

gretta roberts

June 25, 2010

I am so sad to read of Terrie's passing.. I will miss her,,, Terry ia an angel...

Joyce (Barnes) Parks

March 16, 2010

Terry added so much to everyone's lives that she touched on this earth.
May she rest in peace.
My prayers are with her family and friends that are left behind. Even though you will miss her, Terry left you so many wonderful memories. Enjoy them and be comforted by them.

Carol Jeffers

March 9, 2010

I feel a profound sense of loss and waste. Terry was a much loved part of our family. I will miss her in many ways, but especially her warmth.

March 5, 2010

Terry was blessed with a beautiful family and life. I remember fondly the times we spent at Greystone Lane and at family functions in San Diego. Also, the times we shared in Italy. She was beloved by many. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Love,
Mary Lou Oehler
cousin

Vin's Kids

March 5, 2010

Although we have not been physically close in recent years the whole Pfeiffer Clan is very important to us and we love Terry and everyone else very much. We will never forget all the great visits to Graystone Lane in our childhood, with never a dull moment because there were always so many people around, including Terry. Life slips by too fast which becomes abundantly clear when someone close is lost.

March 4, 2010

Too soon gone, but never forgotten. I will always remember the great times I got to share with the Pfeiffer cousins on Graystone Lane....swimming in the creek, cutting "cots" for a quarter a flat, and just being there.....you are all in my thoughts and prayers - and I know that Terry is still nearby, free from pain and watching over all of you. And, she probably has a book in her hands!

Much Love,
Kathy (Roberts) McKinley

Angie Pfirsch

March 4, 2010

Terry’s life was a gift to those whose privilege it was to know her. Her kind heart, wisdom, patience, gentle spirit, warm smile, and love of family and nature have filled our hearts with love and admiration over the years. Our lives have been enriched by her gifts and talents. We thank her parents for bringing this incredible woman into the world and nurturing her spirit. We thank Jim for finding the love of his life and sharing her with us. We thank Emily and Rachael for filling their mother’s heart with love, joy and pride. Our world is a better place because of Terry…she made a difference. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Jeffers and Pfeiffer family. With love, Cousins Angie, Matt, and family

March 3, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the whole family. You have lost a wonderful person. She must be such a beautiful angel.!! I will always have wonderful memories of the times we saw each other as youngsters ..''at Graystone"! Mary Ross Melen

Julie Pfeiffer-Perrucci

March 3, 2010

Please know how very much you all are in our hearts and prayers... much love to you all

Patty Wagner

March 3, 2010

A great chasm of sadness has opened up in all our hearts, and we grieve with you three, and the whole California clan. Know that the midwest Jeffers side treasured Terry. Her way of being, of loving and supporting and welcoming led her right to the center of family life, together with you, Jim and Emily and Rachel. We will always, always, always remember her.

June Widman

March 2, 2010

The description of Terry exactly matches my memories of her as one of my "older" cousins. The bemused smile, the tolerant spirit, the quiet intelligence--too soon gone! Thoughts, prayers, and love to Terry's family from your Kentucky cousin!

March 2, 2010

Terry is such a cherished friend. The world has been blessed beyond belief by the gift of her presence in this life! As my mentor and inspiration, Terry has been and continues to be such a gift in this life that I live. She will continue to live in my heart. Daily, I ask myself, "What would Terry do?" and she will continue to be my heartfelt guide from afar. God Bless her precious family and friends! Warmly, Jessica of Highland Meadow Farm way down in Athens County, Ohio

Karen Calcaterra

March 2, 2010

Terry was a wonderful example to us all. Always calm and caring with a touch of humor. My thoughts and prayers are with Jim, Emily, Rachel, and the whole Jack & Louise Pfeiffer family. I will always remember the last time I saw her at Margarets' wedding when she claimed the title of "World's Oldest Bridesmaid" - what a good sport! I will certainly miss seeing Terry on Xmas Eve and at other family events. Wish I could be there Sat.. She will always be in our hearts.

Rosemary osborn

March 2, 2010

My love and appreciation of Terry who has made a great impact on our family with her gracious and giving spirit. My fond memories will linger always. The family is in my prayers.

Love Aunt Rosemary

Lynn Morrison

March 2, 2010

Terry has been a wonderful member of our family and we have always been grateful to Jim for marring her so this would could be. Terry has been the gracious hostess of the summer Jeffer's tree farm reunions for the Jeffer's offspring. She had a passion for the farm and she really enjoyed sharing it with us as does Jim. She will be missed but never forgotten. Jim, Emily, Rachael and the Pfeiffer family are in my prayers for comfort in this time of great loss. She is in our hearts and will continue to be part of our lives. Cousin Lynn

Erin Keys

March 2, 2010

Terry will be deeply missed. We look forward to still seeing her presence still evident at the farm in the sweet blueberries, buzzing bee's, star filled skies and warm summer breezes. She is an unforgettable person and will remain in our hearts forever.

Jonathan Wagner

March 2, 2010

I loved talking with Terry. She would look straight at me, but instead of feeling nervous or intimidated I always felt her intense interest in what I was saying, that she was always seeking to understand rather than judge. Her own views were deeply engaging, drawing us both closer to the truth. I considered her and her kindly ways a refreshing gift to my life and the life of my family, and will miss her greatly.

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