Teresa Ree Newkirk

Teresa Newkirk, 75, of Mt. Pleasant, passed away Sunday, December 31, 2023, at Comfort Care of Mt. Pleasant. Teresa was born March 12, 1948, in Allegan, Michigan, daughter of the late Douglas and Esther (Shipley) Newkirk. Teresa graduated from Caro High School in 1966 and earned her bachelor's degree in teaching from Central Michigan University. She was employed by Chippewa Hills School District as a special education teacher for over 20 years, retiring in 2000. During that time, Teresa made a positive impact on the lives of countless young people. Teresa loved horses and enjoyed trail riding all over the country. At one time Teresa owned a racehorse at Mt. Pleasant Meadows.  Her number one priority was her family. She attended nearly every sporting event of her children and grandchildren until her affliction with Alzheimer's made it too difficult. As such, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider the Alzheimer's Association, in Teresa's name. Envelopes are available at Charles R. Lux Family Funeral Home. Teresa is survived by her two daughters, Melissa Gross of Mt. Pleasant and Nicole (James Benaske) Foltz of Grand Ledge; grandchildren, Kevin (Alaina) Gross of Beal City, Kyle (Emily) Gross of Mt. Pleasant, Kendall (Allie) Gross of Cheboygan, Mackenzie Foltz of Lansing, Hanna Foltz of Lansing, and Easton Benaske of Grand Ledge; great grandchildren, Arlo, Kalvin, Wren, Kaden, and Leighton; siblings, Michael (Marcia) Newkirk of Raleigh, NC and Lavonne Newkirk of Ann Arbor; special friend, Jan Newman; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; and siblings, Diane Gillespie and Sue Morrison. A private family service is being planned. To sign the online guest book or leave a condolence for the family please visit www.CharlesRLux.com.