Teresa Ann Gilliam

In Loving Memory of Teresa Ann Gilliam
Altoona, Iowa

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Teresa Gilliam, who left us on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at the age of 61. She was born in Des Moines, Iowa, to Larry and Mary (Janssens) Gilliam, and spent her life spreading kindness, compassion, and love to everyone fortunate enough to know her.

To her grandchildren, she was lovingly known as "Grandma Angel"—a name that perfectly captured her gentle spirit and nurturing heart. Teresa had an extraordinary ability to light up a room and uplift those around her. Her warmth, humor, and selflessness touched the lives of countless people.

A devoted nurse, Teresa graduated from nursing school in 1995 and spent the next 30 years caring for others with unwavering compassion and grace. She lived her life in service to others, always putting their needs before her own, whether in her career or in her everyday relationships.

Teresa was a loving mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She had a passion for all things beautiful—seraphim angels, jewelry, home décor treasures, flower arrangements, and anything that sparkled (bling bling). She loved a good bargain, a strong margarita shared with friends and family, and a night out at the casino with her children or parents.

Teresa’s sense of humor, strong moral compass, and joyful spirit made her a source of strength and light to those around her. She never wavered in her commitment to doing what was right and was a steady, comforting presence in her family and patients’ lives.

She is survived by her loving children, Heather Lau, Stephen Lau, and Josh (Ryan) Guerra-Lau; and her beloved grandchildren, Conner Whitacre and Chloe Lau. She also leaves behind her mother, Mary Gilliam; her sisters, Sheryl Goodhue (Brandon North) and Carey (Larry) Smith; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews; Shawn Carlson, Michael McDonald, Tyler Goodhue, Jordan Goodhue and Savannah Smith, along with extended family, and dear friends.

Teresa was preceded in death by her father, Larry Gilliam; niece, Jessica Smith and brother-in-law, Charles Goodhue.

Teresa’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her love, laughter, and legacy of kindness will never be forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, from 2:00 -4:00 p.m., at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave., Des Moines. A memorial service will follow at 4:00 p.m., at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorial contributions to the family in loving memory of Teresa.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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