Theresa Lynn Davis was recognized for her endless energy, radiant smile and bright blue eyes. This amazing, caring, loving mom passed away on September 16, 2018 at home surrounded by family and friends. Born in Milwaukee, WI on September 2, 1966, she was the daughter of William Herbert and Susan Davis. Shortly after she was born, the family moved to Black River Falls, WI, where Theresa attended St. Joseph's Catholic School later completing her education in West Salem, WI graduating with honors. Theresa's undergraduate studies began at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosses then transferring to University of Wisconsin-Madison where she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a dual BA degree in political science and languages. She obtained her Juris Doctorate degree from Chicago-Kent College of Law in 1994, receiving the prestigious American Jurisprudence Award upon graduation.
Theresa began her legal career at the State's Attorney Office in Chicago. In 1996, her 20 plus year journey in private practice began with Freeborn and Peters in Chicago. Later that year, she moved to Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP where she worked towards and achieved partner status. In 2010, she joined Loeb and Loeb, continuing her leadership role as a partner. In 2013, Theresa joined Reed Smith as a partner and finished her legal career focusing on high-profile litigation and crisis management. Her professional accomplishments include admission to serve as attorney and counselor to both the Supreme Court of the United States and the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, named one of the Top 50 Women Illinois Super Lawyers from 2013-2016, championed the advancement of women within the legal profession, holding several advisory roles with that focus, including serving as a board member for the National Women's Law Center. She supported diversity in the arts, the workplace and society through direct participation and contributions. Theresa took great pride in mentoring aspiring attorneys and empowering women.
Theresa enjoyed participating in various sports and athletic events, traveling with family and friends, and spending time at the lake. She was a lifelong Green Bay Packer fan who tolerated (pitied) Chicago Bears fans surrounding her. By far her greatest joy was spending time with her children, family and friends. She had a special talent for bringing people together, making them feel comfortable, welcomed and loved.
A special thanks to "Team Theresa" whose members played an integral part in supporting her through this journey. Members frequently dropped whatever they were doing to travel from near and far to help out in any way possible. Team Theresa is a testament to the person she was and is evidenced by the large group of family and friends that wanted to help out and give back to a true friend in need while she endured a very difficult battle.
Theresa is survived by her two children Ethan and Hailey, her partner Kevin Ryczek, her mother, her brother Will Davis, and sisters Mary Servais and Stephanie (Todd) Fox. She is further survived by her cherished nieces and nephews, Chad Servais, Cole Servais, Cailey (Travis) Priem, Jenna Thompson and Taylor Thompson. She was preceded in death by her spouse Kelsey Doe and father.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 1 pm - 5 pm at Galleria Marchetti 825 W. Erie Street Chicago on Sunday, September 30, 2018. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be mailed to P.O. Box 118 Salem, WI 53168, made payable to "Bright Directions" and will be utilized for establishing a higher education fund for Theresa's children, Ethan and Hailey.
Celebrations schedule:
1-2pm gathering
2-3 Celebration of Life Ceremony
3-5 Celebration with Music, Hors devours and cocktails
A burial service will be held in Lacrosse, Wisconsin at a later date.