Theresa Hobson

Theresa Marie (Charles-Campbell) Hobson

On the evening of Tuesday, April 29, 2025, Theresa Marie (Charles-Campbell) Hobson passed away at her home in Indianapolis, Indiana, following complications from Multiple Sclerosis (MS), surrounded by her loved ones. Theresa was 51 years old.

She was born at St. Francis Hospital in Beech Grove, Indiana, on September 25, 1973, the daughter of James (deceased) and Shirley Charles.

As a child, Theresa was a swimmer on her neighborhood swim team and at Perry Meridian High School. At 13, her family relocated to Pittsburgh, PA, where she attended Bethel Park High School and played the clarinet in the marching band. Upon returning to Indianapolis, she graduated from Perry Meridian High School in 1991 and later earned a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the University of Indianapolis.

With a natural love for children and a passion for teaching, Theresa devoted her entire career to serving students in the Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) system. She taught 2nd through 5th grade at Schools 68 and 83 and was remembered as a caring, intuitive educator who saw and met the unique needs of each child. Whether offering a warm coat to a student on a cold day or creating a safe space in her classroom, Theresa led with compassion and unwavering dedication.

Theresa embraced motherhood with open arms-adopting her daughter Koia Ann at age three, then marrying Coya Campbell on June 20, 1998. Her only son, Brentton Jai, was born on July 22, 2000. During summers off from teaching, Theresa created unforgettable adventures for her children. She cherished their one-on-one time and made it her mission to ensure they always felt special and deeply loved. She shielded them from life's harder edges when she could, always aiming to make the world more joyful. She encouraged Brentton to pursue his goals, explore the world, and stay active in sports-and she modeled resilience through her own journey with MS.

After complications in her first marriage, Theresa and Coya amicably divorced, continuing to create a loving and supportive environment for their children. Theresa later met Eric while teaching. He would arrive early each morning to prepare the classroom, and soon they were not only teaching partners but life partners. They married on April 7, 2012. Eric describes them as the perfect team-he brought logic, and she brought lightness and adventure. He credits Theresa for helping him step out of his comfort zone and embrace new experiences like cruises and countless trips to the beach. Their connection was deep and balanced-truly a match made in heaven.

Theresa always looked after the people around her, often stepping into a motherly role for those who needed one. She was generous to the core-giving her last dollar to someone in need or rallying others to help if she couldn't. Even in her most painful moments, she carried a sharp sense of humor and a caring heart.

Theresa was diagnosed with MS in 2000, shortly after the birth of her son. MS is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. In 2019, her illness progressed rapidly. Still, Theresa rarely missed a day of teaching-her commitment to her students never wavered. She officially retired in 2021 due to MS complications, but even after leaving the classroom, she never stopped being a teacher, mentor, mother, and friend.

In her final days, Theresa remained true to who she was-offering wisdom, comfort, and love. Just days before her passing, she was gently guiding her mother and son, still teaching, still caring, still giving. She lived-and left-this life with the same grace, strength, and heart she gave to others every day.

Theresa's generosity continued after death through her decision to donate her body to the Anatomical Education Program at the Indiana University School of Medicine. Her gift will contribute meaningfully to the advancement of health science education in the state of Indiana.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation to all the friends, family, caregivers, neighbors, and supporters who surrounded Theresa with love throughout her life. Special thanks also go to her medical and care teams for their dedication and compassion. Her family could not have done it without you.

Theresa is survived by her husband, Eric Hobson; her son, Brentton Campbell; her daughter, Koia Ann Campbell; her mother, Shirley Charles; her brother, James E. Charles; and many extended family members and friends.

Celebration of Life Details:

Location: Northminster Presbyterian Church, 1660 Kessler Boulevard East Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46220

Time: 2:00 PM, Saturday, May 17, 2025

Officiant: Rusty Kennedy

Reception: Following the service at the church

Theresa's Last Luau: Hosted at her home after the reception

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Theresa's lifelong devotion to public education, the family invites you to donate to Teachers' Treasures, an Indianapolis-based nonprofit that supports local teachers and classrooms.