Teresa Joan Vales, 67, of Decatur, Michigan, passed away on May 4, 2026, at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She was born on October 5, 1958, in Marion, Ohio.

Teresa was a woman who could best be described as caring, hardworking, and stubborn in the very best ways. She spent her life taking care of those around her, whether that meant supporting her family, helping her community, or simply being the person others could count on when life became difficult. She had a way of making people feel seen and heard, often through a simple phone call, a thoughtful text message, or quiet encouragement when it was needed most.

She loved reality television and could often be found relaxing with her favorite shows after a long day. Her family fondly remembers one of her most recognizable sayings, “Oh my God,” usually delivered with an eye roll that made everyone laugh. Teresa also enjoyed watching shows with her daughters and grandchildren, especially sharing moments and conversations about the latest episodes.

Family meant everything to Teresa. She created traditions centered around being together, especially family dinners and shopping trips with her daughters. She naturally took on the role of protector and caretaker, especially for her youngest daughter. Her family remembers her as someone who always worked hard and encouraged others to do the same. She believed deeply in independence and resilience and taught those values by example every day.

Teresa dedicated much of her working life to serving others. She previously worked as a bus driver for Decatur Public Schools and Telamon Migrant Head Start. Most recently, she dedicated 17 years of service to SMCAA, where she worked as a shelter attendant and case worker. No matter the position, she took pride in working hard and providing for the people she loved.

She is survived by her daughters, Amy (Victor) Jimenez of Decatur and Tiwanee (Isaiah) Benjamin of Moline, Illinois; her sons, Brad Vales of Three Rivers and Josh Vales of Elkhart, Indiana; several beloved grandchildren including Jacob Gerhold of Decatur, Alyssa Jimenez of Decatur, Max Vales of Three Rivers, and Ayden Vales of South Bend, Indiana; her brother, Scott (Sue) Isham of Williamston, Michigan; her brother, Mark (Teresa) Radabaugh of Houston, Texas; and many nieces and nephews including Nick (Cecelia Galvan), Jake and Sydney Isham, and Rachael and Kelsey Radabaugh.

She was preceded in death by her fiancé, Paul Benjamin; her son, Jason Williams; her father, Robert Radabaugh; her mother, Delores Isham; her stepfather, James Isham; and her granddaughter, Kierra Vales.

Those who knew Teresa will remember how deeply she cared for her family and for so many others throughout her life. Her strength, honesty, humor, and unwavering love leave behind a lasting legacy that will continue through the family she cherished so deeply.

Cremation entrusted to Family First Funeral & Cremation Services.