Theresa Kathleen Kowaljow Rice

Obituary of Theresa Kathleen Kowaljow Rice Please share a memory of Theresa to include in a keepsake book for family and friends. View Tribute Book Theresa Kowaljow Rice, 76, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones, as she went to be with the Lord.She was born on June 12, 1949, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Joseph and Florence Rice. Theresa grew up in Jackson, New Jersey, where she attended school and began her adult life. Over the years, she lived in Howell, Freehold, Long Branch, and Miami before finally making Houston, Texas, her home in 2006.Theresa dedicated her life to nursing, where her intelligence, skill, and commitment to saving lives touched countless patients and inspired all who worked alongside her. She began her career with a strong focus on cardiac care, serving as an ICU Nurse, Burn Center Nurse, and Nurse Manager. During her time as a Nurse Manager, she contributed to published medical papers and co-authored a book with physicians on cardiac issues and emerging treatments, while also teaching and mentoring ICU staff.She was a true spitfire. She was never afraid to speak the truth or say what others were too afraid to. She had a sharp wit, a vibrant presence, and was the life of every party. Her laughter, sense of humor, and bold spirit made every room brighter, and she brought so much fun to everyone around her.Theresa was married to the love of her life, George Kavoleff Kowaljow, for 21 years. Together, they raised their three daughters, whom she loved endlessly. Though they later divorced, their love for each other never faded. George passed away on February 10, 2016. Their love was rooted in deep connection, lasting friendship, and enduring devotion.Theresa is survived by her daughters, Kimberly Kowaljow, Kelly Kowaljow, and Laura and Michael Bermudez. Her greatest joy in life was being "Nanny" to her grandchildren: Tyler Bermudez, Arielle Bermudez (fiancé Andrew Nlemadim), and Jonathan Bermudez, Kyle (Jaqueline) Kowaljow, and Karley (Christian) Buchanan. Her heart was fullest when she became "Nanny" to her beloved great-granddaughter, Arianna Nlemadim. She is also survived by her brother, Joseph Rice, her sister, Joanne Rosenberg, and several nieces and nephews, along with extended family members. She held a special place in her heart for George's family, whom she loved dearly. Everyone will always remember her for the love and joy she brought into their lives.Above all, she was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her warmth, selflessness, and unconditional love left a lasting imprint on the hearts of her family and everyone blessed to know her. A private family service will be held to honor her life. She was welcomed into Heaven by our Lord and by cherished loved ones who went before her, and her spirit will forever remain with her family, who will hold close the beautiful memories created together. She will forever be remembered for her devotion to family and the many lives she touched, and will always be deeply and profoundly missed by her entire family, who will carry her love in their hearts forever.