Theresa Ann Rodier

Theresa Ann "Terri" Rodier passed away peacefully at home in Roswell, Georgia, on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from natural causes. A visitation was held on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, Missouri, followed by a graveside service at Freeman Cemetery. Memorial donations are suggested to the National Pancreas Foundation, https://pancreasfoundation.org/.

Born on December 19, 1957, in Harrisonville Hospital, Theresa was the first daughter of Joe and Dorothy (Lalicker) Rodier of Freeman, MO. A proud graduate of Cass Midway High School, she was active in sports and student government-cheering, playing basketball, running hurdles (earning a state medal), and being crowned Homecoming Queen. She went on to attend the University of Missouri (Mizzou), where she majored in Fashion Merchandising and joined the Alpha Chi Omega sorority.

Theresa had a magnetic personality and a deep love for her family. Her father nicknamed her "TC" ("Top Cat"), and she lovingly called him "Papa Joe." These names remained beloved inside jokes among family and close friends. As a big sister to Angela and Jennifer, she was fiercely proud and protective-Angela even joined the cheer squad as a mascot while their brother, Joe, played football.

Theresa cherished the holiday season-from Thanksgiving and the Plaza lighting to celebrating birthdays with John, and, of course, Christmas. She made the season magical for everyone, often hosting her family or giving them meaningful gifts they wouldn't buy for themselves. She loved reconnecting with old friends, playing games (Uno, horse racing, or whatever was on hand), and even getting in a bit of target practice if things got too quiet around the table.

In Atlanta, Theresa met her beloved partner, John Lawrence, and was drawn to his quiet charm and good looks. While working at Cheers, John came in and she went to take his order, sat on his lap and said, "You are cute." John asked her out for the next night and dated from then on. They built a life in Roswell, Georgia, and shared a love of camping, canoeing, and fishing. She always found ways to make their birthdays special before heading back to Missouri for the holidays. They loved to decorate their home for the holidays together.

After her mother's passing, Theresa returned home to care for her father in his final years. She filled those days with home-cooked meals, warm conversations, and thoughtful acts of service for neighbors and lifelong family friends.

Theresa was preceded in death by her loving parents, Joe and Dorothy Rodier. She is survived by her partner, John Lawrence; her brother, Joe Rodier; and her sisters, Angela Rodier and Jennifer Rodier.

Her quirky smile, quick laugh, and generous spirit will be missed by all who had the joy of knowing her.