Theresa Marie Armendarez: A Life of Service and Love
Harbinger, NC – It is with a heavy heart that we reflect on the life of Theresa Marie Armendarez, who ascended to heaven on October 12, 2024. Born on March 13, 1965, in Lynwood, California, Theresa was not just a remarkable individual; she was a devoted wife, a caring mother, and a voice for the voiceless.
A Loving Family
Theresa leaves behind her loving husband, Larry, and their cherished son, Grayson, born in 2002. She was also survived by her dear mother, Monica, father, Jesus (Jess), sister Barbara, and brothers Robert, Raymond, Rick Anthony, and Jeffrey. The family is heartbroken over the loss of their youngest sister, Jessica, who was preceded in death.
A Trailblazer in Her Career
Theresa’s passion for children and service began early in her career. Armed with a BA in Communications from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communications at Arizona State University, she channeled her skills into law, earning a JD from U.C. Law of San Francisco.
As a formidable juvenile public defender in Phoenix, Arizona, Theresa fought diligently for the rights of her young clients, ensuring they had the fair representation they deserved. Her work left a lasting impression on countless families and children.
A New Chapter in North Carolina
In 2010, Theresa took a leap of faith and moved with her husband and son to the scenic Outer Banks of North Carolina. This was a transformative chapter where she applied her love for community service to non-profit leadership. For two years, she led a team of volunteers at the Beach Food Pantry in Kitty Hawk, overseeing a remarkable building expansion to better serve those in need.
In 2017, the family briefly relocated to Connecticut, where Theresa took on an essential role at Higher Edge in New London. There, she dedicated her efforts to helping first-generation high school and low-income students navigate the often overwhelming journey to college. Her positive influence was felt far and wide as she believed in the power of education.
A Return to Her Roots
Returning to the Outer Banks in 2019, Theresa took on the role of Executive Director at Port Discover in Elizabeth City. Her last position was with The Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo, NC, where her award-winning grant writing skills brought in hundreds of thousands of dollars, creating immeasurable impacts on the community.
A Celebration of Life
Just days before her passing, Larry and Theresa celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on October 8th, a testament to their enduring love. Family, friends, and community members are invited to celebrate Theresa’s life at the Kitty Hawk United Methodist Church on Friday, October 18th, at 1:00 pm, with a heartfelt reception immediately following.
Honor Her Memory
In lieu of flowers, Theresa’s family kindly requests that donations be made in her name to impactful organizations she was passionate about: The Elizabethan Gardens (elizabethangardens.org), the Beach Food Pantry (beachfoodpantry.org), or the Outer Banks Health Cowell Cancer Center in Nags Head, NC (give.ecuhealthfoundation.org).
The community, along with the family, can share their condolences and treasured memories at Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks. It’s a bittersweet reminder of a life well-lived, marked by love for family, advocacy for children, and dedicated service to the community.
