Obituary of Therese A. Wentz

Therese "Terry" Ann Hariper, affectionately known to family and friends as "Big T," passed away at Richard L. Owens Hospice Home on June 9, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, creativity, faith, and laughter. Born in Cleveland, Ohio on April 8, 1957, to Jim Hariper and the late Joan Hariper, Terry lived life in full, vibrant color and touched countless lives with her warmth, generosity, and unique spirit.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Joan Hariper, and her sister, Ann Hariper-McDonald.

Terry is survived by her father, Jim Hariper; her daughter, Lindsey Wentz (Justin Carter); her son, Nathan (Jessica) Wentz; her grandsons, Crew and Ford, who brought her immeasurable joy and will undoubtedly carry forward her creative spirit; her loving sisters, Kathy Kelly and Kristine Betley; and her honorary sister and lifelong best friend, Lisa Licursi.

Terry graduated from Normandy High School in 1975 and continued her education at Bowling Green University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in education. Throughout her life, she devoted herself to teaching, volunteering for school activities, and raising her family. While she wore many hats, her favorite roles were Mom and Grandma.

Terry was a gifted and prolific artist whose signature, "TAPH" (Therese Ann Patricia Hariper), can be found on pottery, jewelry, photographs, and thrift-store finds that now reside in the homes of family and friends. She possessed an unmatched eye for discovering hidden treasures and a lifelong love of creative expression. Friends and family were often the fortunate recipients of her one-of-a-kind creations and carefully selected bargains.

Terry was a music lover and her passion, some might call an obsession, for David Bowie was known by all. She was a passionate animal lover and took great pride in her role as chief caretaker of her beloved grand-puppies (and other creatures).

Terry was a member of Free Grace Church, where she found community, friendship, and the opportunity to share her warmth and faith with others. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, fellow congregants, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family encourages those wishing to honor Terry's memory to do something that would have made her smile: browse a local thrift store in search of a wonderfully unique treasure, hug a dog—preferably a very large one—or listen to David Bowie's The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars at a volume that might mildly annoy the neighbors. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Peoria Humane Society.

Her memory will live on through the art she created, the lives she touched, and the love she shared so freely. In honor of the many chapters of her life and the communities she cherished, celebrations of her life will be held in multiple locations. A Celebration of Life will take place on June 19 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at W Event Space, 109 Washington Square, Washington, Illinois. A second gathering will be held in Ohio, the place she always considered home and where many of her loved ones remain, at a later date. In tribute to her artistic spirit and favorite color, guests are invited to wear a touch of red.

Cremation Specialist of Illinois is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.CSofIL.com.