Theresa Ann Juengel

Theresa Ann Juengel, a trailblazer and cherished matriarch, left this world on August 23, 2025, but her legacy of strength, creativity, and compassion will forever resonate in the hearts of those she touched. Born on January 19, 1954, in Fulton, Missouri, Theresa's journey was one of perseverance and joy, culminating in Springfield, Missouri, where she passed away due to internal bleeding.

Theresa's life was a testament to her indomitable spirit and her capacity for love. She was born to the late Lee Roy and Virginia Mae Miller and grew up alongside her siblings, including her sister Kathryn Autenreith, who predeceased her, and her brothers Stan, Roy, and Tom Miller, who continue to honor her memory. Theresa's family was her pride and joy, including her children Bill, Lori, Joey, Doug, Tony, and Jennifer, along with their spouses and her cherished grandchildren.

Theresa's work ethic was nothing short of inspiring. She proudly broke barriers as one of the first women to join the Laborers Union as a general construction worker, a role in which she excelled in until health challenges paved the way for her to embrace her most cherished role as a full-time mother. Her tenacity and pride in her work were matched only by her dedication to her family.

An active member of the Northern Cherokee Nation, Theresa's pride in her heritage was evident. She attended tribe meetings with enthusiasm and cherished the cultural connections and community it afforded her.

Theresa's artistic talents were as boundless as her imagination. Sewing, crochet, painting, sculpting, and carving were not just hobbies but extensions of her creative spirit. Her handcrafted gifts were not mere objects but tangible expressions of her love and kindness. Her intelligence shone through her crafts, each stitch and brushstroke a testament to her sharp mind.

A lover of all living creatures, Theresa's affinity for animals and nature was profound. Her pets, three cats and two dogs, were beloved companions that brought her immense joy and comfort. They, too, are a part of her enduring legacy, now lovingly cared for by her children.

To describe Theresa as creative, kind, and intelligent is to capture the essence of a woman whose life was a canvas of compassion and resilience. She played baseball with her cousins as a child, and that spirit of teamwork and camaraderie carried through every aspect of her life. Theresa's story is not one of sorrow but a celebration of a life well-lived, a life that reminds us to cherish our own journeys, to embrace our heritage, and to pour love into everything we do.

As we remember Theresa Ann Juengel, let us be inspired by her example to break through barriers, to create with passion, and to love without reservation. Her spirit, like the art she created, will remain a beacon of light and inspiration to all who knew her. Theresa's life was a masterpiece, and her memory will continue to motivate and uplift us, urging us onward to craft our own lives with the same courage and heart that she did hers.

Theresa has requested to be cremated and that she be placed alongside her late husband Jon for eternity in the columbarium at the Springfield Veterans Cemetery. (The placement ceremony will be held at a later date). If you also wish to attend please make note of your contact information on the form linked below.

We will be holding a Celebration of Life for Theresa in Greenfield MO.

The First Christian Church has graciously offered their buildings and services for the celebration of life on Saturday, September 6 at 1 pm. The address for the church is 409 W College Greenfield MO 65661. Following the services there will be a dinner provided by the church for the family. We encourage all to attend and share their memories of Theresa. Please RSVP at https://forms.gle/cVAFWXbv3KefZyrb9.

Anyone who wishes to send flowers or a card are welcome to do so by contacting the Wisteria House in Greenfield (417) 637-2005 and let them know the order is for the family of Theresa or if you wish to send directly to a family member please leave contact information and details on the form linked above.