Theresa Connors

Theresa Ann Connors, age 56, passed away December 12, 2020.

She was the beloved wife of Kevin Connors and mother to Thomas Connors.

Theresa was born on July 7, 1964 in Mt. Clemens, Michigan. She grew up in East Detroit and graduated from East Detroit High School. The youngest of nine, Theresa was the loving daughter of the late Donna C. Southlea and the late Floyd R. Convery; step-daughter of Norman J. Southlea; loving sister of Kathleen (Robert) Carroll, Patricia (Henry) Heydel, Floyd C. Convery, Karen (Michael Shimei) Convery, Carol (Robert) Kasprzak; the late Daniel (Laura) Convery, Christopher Convery and Michael Convery; dear step-sister of Gary Southlea, Patricia (Lawrence) Kearney, Linda (Paul) Smudski, Curt (Sharon) Southlea; sister-in-law to Maureen Connors (John Fackelman) and Thomas (Nancy) Connors. Theresa is also survived by many aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends.

Theresa was a lifetime member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and a Member of the 300 Founding Families of Detroit.

A loving wife and mother she endeared herself to family and friends with both a sharp wit and a calm spirit. In what would soon become her lifelong career and ultimate passion, Theresa began her work as a chef's apprentice at Park Plaza Gardens. Through hard work and eager attitude to learn, Theresa quickly advanced through the rankings of the kitchen. From her time in 'salad prep' at Linda's La Cantina, to her 30 years of service at the Palace of Lake Buena Vista, to her 6 years as the Chef de Cusine of Arthurs 27, Theresa completed the remainder of her career as Assistant Executive Chef at Rosen Shingle Creek.

Throughout her stellar career Chef Theresa accomplished much and received a countless number of awards and accolades. She received her Certified Executive Chef Accreditation, was honored as 'Manager of the Year' at the Buena Vista Palace, placed first in the CFHL 'Ultimate Chef Competition', was named one of Central Florida's 'Top 20 Chefs' and was a finalist in the Sunkist competition at the Chicago Food Show. Known for her talent, creativity and leadership, Chef Theresa remains a highly respected figure by colleagues and co-workers alike.

Theresa was an avid gardener and could often be found tending to her herb garden. An active athlete in her school days, Theresa continued on as enthusiastic sports fan. She enjoyed cheering-on her son Thomas, a current member of the Stetson University football team and former member of the Bishop Moore state champion football team. Her 'home team' was the Detroit Tigers.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 17, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Carey Hand Colonial Funeral Home, 2811 East Curry Ford Rd, Orlando with a Funeral Mass to be held on Friday, December 18 at 9:30am at St. James Cathedral at 215 N Orange Ave, Orlando.

Arrangements entrusted to CAREY HAND COLONIAL FUNERAL HOME, 2811 Curry Ford Road, Orlando, FL 32806 407-898-2561 www.careyhandcolonialfh.com