Theresa Marie Rasp, nee Ryan, 57, of O'Fallon, also known as Mother Theresa Queen of the Universe, passed away early Saturday morning, April 8, 2017 peacefully in her home.

She was born in East St. Louis, on the 24 ^th day of August to the late Richard "Foz" and Shirley Ryan.  Theresa attended O'Fallon Township High School and upon graduation attended Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville where she received both bachelors and master's degrees in Secondary Education.  She taught for more than 30 years, spending 3 years at the Children's Center for Behavioral Development and 28 more at Collinsville High School.  On top of being a special education teacher, Theresa also managed the school's cooperative work program, connecting special needs students with job skills and employment.  Theresa's care for her students did not end with their education, but extended into caring for them as mother, friend and confidant.

Outside of her work as an teacher, her friends were one of her greatest joys, and she found them everywhere she went; some she carried with her from childhood, others were made in college, some through her career at CCBD and Collinsville and countless others 'picked up along the way'.

Theresa's family also brought her great joy; she was a loving wife to Ronald Rasp, and mother of two, to Army 2 ^nd Lieutenant Matt (Lainey) Obernuefemann, of Clarksville, Tenn., and Clara Obernuefemann, of O'Fallon.  She was blessed with her first grandbaby April 3, 2016, Oakley Marie, daughter of Matthew (Lainey) Obernuefemann.   She is also survived by her dearest brothers, Pat (Karla) Ryan, and Tim Ryan, both of O'Fallon, as well as countless nieces, nephews and cousins.

Theresa was a beacon, spreading love, light and hope to all those she encountered, even on her worst days.  Her infectious laugh, wild dance moves and notable facial expressions were infamous to all who knew and continue to love her.  Theresa should be remembered as a wonderful friend, dedicated caregiver and amateur comedian who laughed with her friends and family until the very end.

The family wishes to thank all of those who cared for her during her last few months. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to the American Cancer Society or directly to their Hope Lodge which provides free housing to patients undergoing cancer treatment in St. Louis, Missouri.

Visitation: The family will receive friends from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Friday, April 14, 2017 at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, 102 W. Washington St., O'Fallon, with a brief prayer service to be held at 6:30p.m.

Funeral: A gathering to celebrate her life will be from Noon - 4:00 p.m., Sunday, May 28, 2017 at Hidden Lake Winery, 10580 Wellen Rd., Aviston, Illinois 62216. All are welcome to come share your stories and memories of Theresa. Please RSVP to Ron or contact the funeral home.