Terese Jeanine Carlson, a woman whose laughter could light up the darkest room, has taken her final bow on this stage we call life. Born in the bustling city of Chicago on July 23, 1939, Terese was a beacon of joy and creativity from the get-go. On January 15, 2025, she concluded her earthy gig in the cozy town of Frankfort, leaving behind a legacy of love, art, and the kind of spirit that could give the Energizer Bunny a run for its money. Survived by her children Suzanne, Sherry, Michael (Melissa), and Erik, grandchildren Patrick, Matthew, Christopher, Kelly, Claire, Kelsey, Michael, Ryan, Isabella, Parker, Christian, and Joey, and great grandchildren Tristin, Olivia, Owen, Sophia, Colton, Dylan, Poppy and Tommy. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. Preceded in death by her loving husband Kenneth Carlson, parents Anthony and Eleanor Minervini, son-in-law Michael Wayda, daughter-in-law Shannon Carlson, and brother Thomas Minervini.

A proud alumna of Forman High School, Terese turned the world into her canvas and her home into a museum of warmth and comfort. She wore the title of homemaker like a badge of honor, infusing every nook and cranny with her infectious cheer and the aroma of her legendary rosettes – Rosettes so good they could broker world peace!

Terese's passion for painting was only matched by her love for crocheting, creating masterpieces that were as colorful as her personality. But let's not forget her love affair with the sun, the beach, and all things Florida. It was rumored that Terese had enough suntan lotion stockpiled to oil up the entire cast of Baywatch. And if joy were a currency, Terese would've been the Federal Reserve of happiness, with her sunny disposition and her heart as big as the ocean she adored.

In a world that takes itself too seriously, Terese Jeanine Carlson was a reminder that life is better when you're chuckling. She was a one-woman comedy show, leaving us all with smiles etched in our hearts and the sound of her laughter echoing in our memories. So here's to Terese, the woman who taught us that the best way to face life's challenges is with a grin on your face, a brush in your hand, and maybe a crochet hook or two. Curtain down, applause up – Terese, take your final, well-deserved bow.

Visitation for Terese will take place on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at Jackson Creek Fellowship Church, 25800 S Center Rd, Monee, IL 60449, from 10:00AM until her time of Service at 2:00PM, which will be followed by a luncheon also hosted at the church. Per Terese's wishes, cremation will follow. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com