Theresa Elizabeth Marie Marter Jayasanker, 84, passed away on September 20, 2026. 

Born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on September 20, 1942, to Margaret Ceperich Wetzel and Joseph Marter, Theresa was one of five siblings—Dottie, Bill, Tom, and Joey. Together, they shared a close and loving bond that remained an important part of her identity. Additionally her life was beautifully defined by her deep devotion to family, as well as by the simple joys and cherished moments that brought her happiness. She was a jovial person who entertained others with her stories, infectious laughter, and smile. 

Theresa’s early years were marked by a profound dedication to the care and wellbeing of others. She pursued nursing at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia, graduating in 1967 as a Registered Nurse. It was here where she met the love of her life, M R Jayasanker. The couple married in 1968 in her native Harrisburg and embarked on a journey that led them to Cincinnati and Buffalo for medical training before finally establishing their home in Chicago in 1973, where Theresa would reside for nearly six decades in a loving partnership. 

Above all, Theresa found her greatest fulfillment in her family. A devoted mother, she poured unwavering love and attention into nurturing her three children—Laresh, Lara, and Leah—guiding them with compassionate strength and ultimately celebrating their successes in higher education. While raising her family, she continued her vocation, working as a registered nurse and dedicating many years to service, notably in pop-up flu clinics across the Chicagoland area. Accompanied by her loyal therapy dog, Fluffy, she brought solace and comfort to many hospital patients, embodying a spirit of generosity deeply rooted in her Catholic faith. 

Theresa’s character was unmistakably her own—known for never mincing words. Those who knew her treasured her candor balanced by kindness, as well as the joy she found in spending cherished moments with family and dear friends. She enjoyed swimming, bowling, playing tennis, classical dance performances, and knitting. 

Theresa found great comfort and entertainment in the stories on her screen, from lighthearted sitcoms to classic films on TCM and old-school horror movies. Above all, she held a deep affection for The Phantom of the Opera, a masterpiece she was fortunate enough to experience live in theater numerous times. She spent countless hours knitting scarves and blankets as gifts and donations for various homeless shelters in the Chicagoland area. Her home was her sanctuary, where she delightfully engaged in card games and laughter with guests. 

Her final hours were spent celebrating a milestone birthday surrounded by her loving family. She is survived by her husband, Jayasanker; her daughters, Lara and Leah; and her grandchildren, Holly, Ella, Balthazar, and Belisario. 

Theresa Elizabeth Marie Marter Jayasanker lived a richly meaningful and impactful life. Her absence leaves an immeasurable void, yet her legacy of love, faith, service, and merriment will endure in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.