Theresa Jean Hayden
December 15, 1961 – October 30, 2021
Theresa Jean (Gardiner) Hayden was born to Donald Gardiner and Joan (Armacost) Gardiner on December, 15, 1961 in Hamilton, Ohio. Shortly after she was born, Theresa’s family relocated to the DC area, where she spent the remainder of her life. After her mother passed away when she was five, Theresa’s father married Sheila and her family grew from three brothers and two sisters to six brothers and three sisters. Theresa graduated from Largo High School in 1979 and received her cosmetology license shortly thereafter. Over the years she befriended dozens of colleagues and charmed countless customers while working as a hairdresser.
On August 24, 1982, Theresa married Melvin (Mel) Hayden. They had two sons, Christopher (Chris), born in 1983, and Jeffrey (Jeff), born in 1987. In 2019, Theresa’s greatest wish came true when she welcomed her grandchild, Carter James Hayden, into the world. Theresa’s family was always her first love, but she was also an avid dog lover, ultimately bringing about a dozen furry family members into the Hayden household over the years.
In 2009, after already having lost one sister to cancer and while supporting another who was battling cancer, Theresa herself was diagnosed with breast cancer. She fought like hell and beat the cancer, but she was never able to fully overcome the effects of the treatment. On October 30, 2021, Theresa passed away unexpectedly at home in Owings, MD. She will be greatly missed.
Theresa is survived by her husband Mel; her sons Chris (wife Terumi) and Jeff (wife Cassie); her grandchild Carter; her brothers Steve, Chris, Mike, Paul, Graham, and Bryan; her sister Donna Lynn; and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her father Donald; her mother Joan; her stepmother Sheila; and her sisters Donna and Dottie.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish to do so are encouraged to make a donation to the ASPCA in Theresa’s name.
The service for Theresa will be livestreamed on the Rausch Funeral Home Facebook page and can be accessed by using the following link https://www.facebook.com/RauschFH
Visitation
Saturday, November 13, 2021
1:00 P.M. – 2:00 P.M.
Services
Saturday, November 13, 2021
2:00 P.M.
Interment
- Private
Contributions
Condolences
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9 Nov 2021
10:45am
Our deepest condolences to Mel Christopher and Jeffrey also to extended family and friends.
Scott and Laurie Pletsch
City
OWINGS
State
Md
11 Nov 2021
10:52am
Rest In Peace, little sister. I’ll always love you.
City
Annapolis
State
Md
11 Nov 2021
5:55pm
You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Our families got together a lot when we were young. She is now with her sisters and her parents. Rest easy cousin.
City
Hagerstown
State
MD
12 Nov 2021
11:52pm
Hey Sister-in-law I’ll miss you girl. I am so glad that you are no longer in so much pain. Rest in Peace Sweetie. XOXOXO Tell Mom n Dad I said Hello. My brother Mel really does love you and he is missing so much. See you again someday.
City
Onalaska
State
Texas
13 Nov 2021
8:37am
Our thoughts and prayers are with Jeff, Cassie and all the many wonderful family and friends. Terry was one of a kind. Her kindness and love for her family will be missed. God holds you now so rest in his arms. ???? Nick and Marcia
City
Huntingtown
State
MD
13 Nov 2021
11:32am
Thinking of you Jeff & your family. So sorry for your loss. Love & Prayers Linda & Guy
City
PORT REPUBLIC
State
MD
13 Nov 2021
3:11pm
Sincere Condolences to Melvin Hayden and family. May you find peace, clarity, strength and focus as you go forward during this time of great change and challenge. Although no longer here physically, your beloved Theresa will always be as near as your next heartbeat.
City
Owings
State
Maryland
Sort Comments
Our deepest condolences to Mel Christopher and Jeffrey also to extended family and friends.
Scott and Laurie Pletsch
Rest In Peace, little sister. I’ll always love you.
You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Our families got together a lot when we were young. She is now with her sisters and her parents. Rest easy cousin.
Hey Sister-in-law I’ll miss you girl. I am so glad that you are no longer in so much pain. Rest in Peace Sweetie. XOXOXO Tell Mom n Dad I said Hello. My brother Mel really does love you and he is missing so much. See you again someday.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Jeff, Cassie and all the many wonderful family and friends. Terry was one of a kind. Her kindness and love for her family will be missed. God holds you now so rest in his arms. ???? Nick and Marcia
Thinking of you Jeff & your family. So sorry for your loss. Love & Prayers Linda & Guy
Sincere Condolences to Melvin Hayden and family. May you find peace, clarity, strength and focus as you go forward during this time of great change and challenge. Although no longer here physically, your beloved Theresa will always be as near as your next heartbeat.