Teresa Kay Townsend (Terri) of Traverse City, 59, passed away surrounded by family on Tuesday, May 9, 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Terri was born on February 20, 1964 in Alma, Michigan to James and Carol (Rhoades) Bailey and grew up in St. Louis, Michigan. She was a 1982 graduate from Traverse City High School after attending the first three years at St. Louis High School. She chose to walk with her classmates in St. Louis.

In 1978, she met the love of her life, Carl Townsend. The high school sweethearts wed in 1983 and were happily married for 40 years; going on to have three children, Jacob, Casey, and Hannah.

Terri dedicated her life to her family and friends. She was a fantastic wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend, and grandmother (Nan Nan). She was everyone's biggest cheerleader and supporter. Terri brightened up every room she walked into. She always made sure everyone had what they needed. She enjoyed baking with her grandkids, watching sunsets, and spending time on the pontoon at Higgins Lake. Terri loved to have game night with her family and having coffee dates with friends.

Terri is survived by her beloved husband Carl; loving children Jake (Ashlee), Casey (Sarah), and Hannah (Cameron); grandchildren Makenna, Harper, and Liam; brother James and sister Jacquelyn. She was preceded in death by her parents James and Carol.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Michigan for their care and compassion during Terri's illness. They would also like to thank all the individuals who helped throughout Terri's whole journey.

On Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 630 S. West Silver Lake Rd, Traverse City, Michigan 49685, there will be a visitation from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. with the funeral service following at 11:00 a.m. Following the funeral service, there will be a luncheon.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for those who are wishing to offer expressions of sympathy, to donate to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital ( https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html ) or to this GoFundMe page ( https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-terri-444 ) for family expenses.