With hearts full of love and gentle sorrow, we celebrate the life of Theresa Mary Capelli, who passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025, at Corewell Royal Oak Hospital. Her son and daughter each held one of her hands, waiting with her and surrounding her with love as she went home to be with the Lord.

Born on May 31, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, Theresa was the cherished daughter of the late Raymond and Mary Louise (Shelide) Capelli. Deeply proud of her heritage, she honored her family's roots and beautifully blended her Italian and Lebanese background, embracing both cultures with warmth, passion, and faith.

Theresa lived life to its fullest — vibrant, strong, and endlessly compassionate. A lifelong athlete and lover of the outdoors, she was a black belt in Aikido, a discipline she studied and practiced for most of her life. She loved water skiing, swimming, kayaking, and walking, staying active and adventurous until her final month. She found deep peace in nature and joy in caring for her surroundings.

Her heart for animals was boundless. Theresa volunteered with animal charities and cared for countless stray cats who inevitably became part of her family — her beloved Dolly being her most recent rescue — and delighted in feeding the birds and hummingbirds that visited her yard daily. Her home was filled with love, laughter, and life in every form.

In her kitchen, Theresa's love was shared through food. Her Lebanese chicken, homemade cookies, and desserts were legendary among family and friends. She was also deeply passionate about genealogy, taking great pride in tracing her family's history, joining genealogy societies, and preserving the stories that connected generations. She joyfully shared her findings with family and lovingly considered herself the family genealogist.

Family was the center of Theresa's world. A devoted mother and grandmother, she adored her children and grandchildren, who were her greatest joy. Her boundless love, wisdom, and laughter will forever remain in their hearts.

For over fourteen courageous years, Theresa faced cancer with extraordinary strength, grace, and faith. She refused to be defined by her illness — continuing to live fully, walk daily, volunteer, and embrace each moment with dignity and optimism. Her resilience and courage were an inspiration to all who knew her. She fought her battle with the same energy, hope, and grace that defined her entire life — steadfast, brave, and full of love.

Theresa Mary Capelli's life was a beautiful reflection of faith, kindness, and perseverance. She will be remembered as a woman of radiant spirit, quiet strength, and boundless compassion. Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, her love and light will continue to guide her family and all whose lives she touched.

Theresa is survived by her loving children, Tara Wright and Dorje Wright; and by her cherished granddaughters, Mai, Sumayah, and Huda. She is also survived by her adored cat, Dolly, now lovingly cared for by Dorje.

Please keep Theresa and her family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

A memorial service to further honor Theresa's life is being planned — please check back for more details.