Theresa Lynn (Gehringer) Smith

Theresa was born in Des Moines, IA on April 11, 1963, the third of six children of Janet (Wilgenbush) and Lester "Doc" Gehringer. She passed away on March 7, 2019, surrounded by her family.  Services will be held 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, March 12 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St Marys, IA with burial following in the St. Marys Cemetery.

Theresa grew up in St. Marys; she graduated from Martensdale-St. Marys High School and Americana Beauty School.

Theresa had an infectious laugh and an unfailing ability to get others laughing with her, often as the brunt of her own jokes. She never knew a stranger and gained many friends through her career as a hair stylist, working at shops in West Des Moines, St. Marys, Urbandale, and Indianola. She had a special fondness for her elderly clients, always treating them with utmost care and respect while keeping them looking great; she even helped some get all dolled up for their journey to the great beyond.

All who knew Theresa will remember her beautiful smile, hilarious wisecracks, and bigger-than-life personality. She was friendly, loving, and generous. She enjoyed many hobbies, including crosswords, scrapbooking, decorating for all seasons, and crochet. When you left Theresa's shop, you left not only looking better than when you walked in, but with a smile on your face and a new story to share.

Theresa is survived by her son, Cody Smith, of Norwalk; her siblings, Tina Gehringer-Minor (Patrick) of St. Marys, Maria Gehringer (Kendall Tack) of Grundy Center, and Chuck Gehringer (Margie) of St. Marys; her sisters-in-law, Christie Gehringer of St. Marys and Mia Gehringer of Indianola; along with countless nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Marty Gehringer and Chris Gehringer, and her nephew Tom Gehringer.

The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at Iowa Methodist Medical Center for their compassionate care for Theresa during her last days. We also want to thank her extended family, friends, and members of the community for their support during this time.

The visitation will be held 4 to 8 p.m., Monday, March 11 at the St. Marys Parish Hall with family present from 5 to 8 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family in her name.