Thea Ann Johns, nee Kysiak, was born in Chicago, IL on April 29, 1941.
Thea was the devoted daughter of her deceased parents Ann (Wlas) and Ted Kysiak, loving sister of Judy (Don) Engeriser and Bill (DD) Kysiak. Thea was the ex-wife of the deceased Jim Johns.
Thea was the fond aunt of four nephews and one niece, thirteen grand-nieces and nephews, one great-nephew and a fun-loving cousin to many.
Although raised in Chicago, Thea resided in Southern California for sixty years where she cherished her many dear colleagues, friends and especially her neighbor Claudia. Thea was highly regarded in the insurance industry as a licensed underwriter, retiring in 2015.
An ambitious member of the California AA organization, Thea served in various board positions and as a mentor to many over her forty-six years of sobriety. Thea gave generously of her time, talent and treasure; in addition, Thea was faith-filled, well-read, well-traveled, an opera lover, and a sports enthusiast. Thea’s positive attitude with her infectious laugh will be missed by all.
On Ash Wednesday February 14, 2024, Thea, age 82, unexpectedly yet peacefully passed at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital in Glendale, CA with ashes on her forehead, a smile on her face and family at her side.
A California Memorial organized by The Burbank Group was held on Saturday, March 2, 2024 with over one hundred persons in attendance.
Visitation will be Monday, April 29, 2024 from 9:30AM to the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30AM at St. Tarcissus Church 6020 W Ardmore AV, Chicago, IL; interment to follow at St. Adalbert Cemetery 6800 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Thea’s name to Holy Redeemer Church 2411 Montrose AV, Montrose, CA 91020.
For information, please contact DeFiore Funeral Home (847) 515-8772.
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Our Thea was ever the optimist. Our Thea was ever the calming wind when storms were surrounding us. Our Thea was an ever present force of nature who would, against all of the odds, Thea would suit up, show up and She always brought the sunshine into our rooms. In my life with Thea, she was my Wisdom Tree. When SHE built you, SISTER, SHE broke the mold.
What a remarkable person Thea was and I am blessed that she was a part of my life. To the family-I am so sorry for your loss. With love.