Teresa Theadora Matthews

Terry was born and raised in Cranbrook by her late parents, Jean and Alfred Lund, and spent most of her life in the community. Terry is survived by her loving son Jody, daughter-in-law Laura, brother Miki, sister-in-law Tina, and her cat Jazzibella. She was predeceased by her beloved daughter Dawn, whom she cared for with tireless love and compassion, without hesitation or complaint. Her devotion was total and unshakable.

A quintessential hippie in her younger years, Terry had a free spirit, a deep love for music, and a boundless caring for others. She was known for her wanderlust—never hesitating to hitchhike, take spontaneous trips, or hop on the back of a motorcycle for a ride. One of her most treasured travel memories was a trip to Cuba, which she spoke of often.

Terry also had a deep love for the outdoors. Jody remembers many happy camping trips with his mom in her camper van out at Lazy Lake, surrounded by pets, friends, and the peace of nature. These were joyful, grounding times that reflected Terry’s love of simple pleasures and quality time with the people (and animals) she loved.

For nearly two decades, Terry lived with and cared for her mother Jean, providing constant love and companionship until Jean’s passing. Their bond was especially evident during the holidays—Christmas was a cherished time for them both. They would stay up into the early hours of Christmas morning, carefully wrapping and putting the final touches on gifts for their loved ones, delighting in the joy of giving. Terry brought beauty and warmth to every holiday gathering—Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s were times she cherished with her family.

Terry was a caregiver not only by role but by nature. She was always there for her friends, many of whom leaned on her during their hardest times. She loved her family deeply, always making them feel valued and cared for. Her kindness extended to anyone in need—she would never waste leftover food and was known to quietly make sure no one went hungry, including the neighbourhood animals. She would have given everything she had to save a friend.

She cared deeply for her brother Miki and shared a lifelong bond with him, full of both affection and mischief. (Miki never forgot the time she put thumbtacks in his bed! The two used to take turns watching their favorite TV shows on alternating weeks when they aired at the same time—an early lesson in compromise.)

Terry loved her sister-in-law Tina from the moment they met and became one of her fiercest protectors. Their friendship blossomed over decades, rooted in trust and laughter. Tina recalls meeting Terry at a party in the 1970s, where Terry—a true flower child—sang and played her acoustic guitar, leaving a lasting impression with her voice and presence. Terry remained a strikingly beautiful woman throughout her life, radiating strength and grace until the end.

Terry was truly loved by so many. Her laughter, her fierce loyalty, her music, her stories, and her unbreakable spirit will be missed beyond words.

A celebration of Terry’s life will be held in the fall, with details to be announced.

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