Teresita Douglas

Teresita "Lola" G. Douglas passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on the afternoon of January 11, 2026, at UW–Madison University Hospital. A major cardiac event preceded her passing. She was 74 years old and resided in Milton, Wisconsin.
Teresita "Tess" G. Douglas was born on August 13, 1951, in Angeles, Pampanga, Philippines. As the eldest of eight siblings, Tess naturally stepped into a role of leadership early in life-a role that shaped her resilience, independence, and unwavering devotion to family. From a young age, she was known to have a mind of her own: spirited, determined, and unafraid to speak her truth. She loved fiercely, lived fully, and carried a strength that was balanced by deep tenderness and compassion.
As a young woman, Tess worked in cleaning, childcare, and car production, always guided by a strong sense of responsibility and care for others. Her life changed forever when she met the love of her life, Russell Douglas, at Clark Air Force Base, where he was stationed. After a year of courtship, they were married on November 3, 1968, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned 53 years.
Together, they built a life rooted in love, perseverance, and shared dreams. After moving to the United States, Tess's generosity extended far beyond her immediate household. Through her determination and sacrifice, she made it possible for her parents and all eight of her siblings to also come to the U.S.-a decision that forever shaped generations to come. Those siblings raised 27 children, who have since welcomed 23 children of their own, with two more expected at the time of Tess's passing.
The reach of Tess's life is evident in this growing family and in the countless lives they touch. Because of her courage and selflessness, generations have been able to contribute meaningfully to the world in healthcare, law enforcement, social services, hospitality, home and family life, the arts, manufacturing, the entertainment industry, and education.
At the heart of Tess's life was her enduring love for her husband, Russell, who preceded her in death in 2021. Their marriage was marked by deep companionship, shared values, and quiet joy. They cherished time outdoors, family gatherings, and long road trips through South Dakota, Wyoming, California, and-most meaningfully-back to the Philippines. Even after Russell's passing, Tess carried him with her always, woven into her daily routines, memories, and stories.
Family was Tess's greatest priority. She was a mother, sister, aunt, and grandmother who believed that presence was the greatest gift one could give. She could be found faithfully attending her grandchildren's swim meets, track races, band concerts, plays, and graduations-always showing up, always cheering the loudest. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen and valued, even when her strong will and stubborn streak occasionally tested those around her.
Tess expressed love most clearly through action-and through food. She was well known for making lumpia for family gatherings and preparing beloved dishes such as bistec, sinigang, and spam with rice. Her cooking was an extension of her care, a way of preserving tradition and bringing people together. She held her Filipino heritage close to her heart and passed down its values of respect, loyalty, and resilience. For many years, she hosted Christmas celebrations in her home, a cherished tradition now lovingly continued by her daughter, Rose.
Some of Tess's greatest joys were found in quiet moments. She loved gardening, tending berries, planting, and working alongside her husband outdoors. Her favorite place in the home was the leather couch by the window, where she could watch birds and deer pass through the yard. She also treasured long walks spent talking about "ways to save the world" with her dear friends Kathy and Dorothy. Sunsets, thoughtful conversations about politics, birthday celebrations with her sisters, and watching her loved ones grow and succeed brought her deep joy.
Tess was perceptive, empathetic, and deeply sensitive. She had a habit of speaking passionately-sometimes talking over others-only to later pause, truly listen, and apologize. This humility and self-awareness endeared her to many. She had a rare gift for seeing the good in people during their hardest moments and was a steady source of encouragement, especially for her grandchildren when they needed it most.
True to her spirited nature, Tess remained full of surprises until the very end. One such moment came when her family discovered she had been quietly caring for an eight-month-old puppy named Le-un, meaning "little lion." The discovery brought laughter, warmth, and comfort-a final reminder of her nurturing heart, independence, and gentle mischief.
Tess lived by strong values and taught powerful lessons through both word and example: ask questions, stand up for those being mistreated, take risks, remain true to your beliefs, and never be afraid to change direction when something no longer serves you. One of her most enduring messages was simple and profound: Do not cry for me when I am gone-live your life, be happy, and never lose your roots.
Tess's legacy is one of fierce love, cultural pride, devotion to family, and unwavering partnership. She will be remembered as a woman who loved deeply, lived boldly, laughed often, and encouraged others to never make themselves smaller to fit the world.
Her spirit lives on in the traditions she upheld, the garden she tended, the roads she traveled with Russell, and the countless lives she touched with her love.
Tess is lovingly survived by her siblings: Renee Catacutan, Myrna Garunay, Rosalinda Kinderman, Perla Wallace, Edgar Catacutan, Edwin Catacutan, Robert Catacutan, and Jeannie Gonzales; her cherished children: Tracy Douglas, Rowen Douglas, and Rose Mansavage; and her treasured grandchildren: Arianna Mansavage, Jeremiah Mansavage, Caleb Mansavage, Max Jarzen, Rider Jarzen, Jaz Jarzen, Sophia Douglas, and Madelyn. She is also survived by countless nieces and nephews whom she adored, and many dear friends who became family over the course of her life: Charity Catacutan, Ann Catacutan, Trisha Catacutan, Adrian Catacutan, Perla Prime, Sampaguita Jones, Marcella Prime, Casimiro Prime, Chelsea Garunay, Melanie Garunay, Carlo Garunay, Jared Kinderman, Eric Kinderman, Nathaniel Kinderman, Aisha Bencriscutto, Amya Catacutan, Jaya Catacutan, Amelia Catacutan, Aly Catacutan, Adam Catacutan, Isabelle Gonzales, Gabe Gonzales, Alex Gonzales, Cameron Cass, Caitlin Schiller, and Serena Cass. Dear friends Betch, Jim, Kathy, Dorothy, and many many more lives she had touched along the way. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Casimiro and Marcella Catacutan; her husband, Russell Douglas; and dear Caden Kinderman Catacutan.
Our family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Your kindness has carried us. Private Services will be held in the future. The Albrecht Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Milton is assisting the family with arrangements.