Theresa Marie Gaines, 56, of Valparaiso passed away Monday, July 14, 2025. She was born October 27, 1968, in Chicago, IL to William & Catherine (O’Connor) Doyle and graduated from Chesterton High School in 1986. Theresa began her career with Greek’s/A.J.’s Pizza on route #6 in Liberty Township near her family homestead and became a shift manager. She went on to manage other area eateries with her dependable skillset and friendly demeanor.
On November 7, 1992, she married Joseph Gaines who preceded her in death on July 19, 2024. Survivors include their daughter, Riley Gaines, grandson, Jaiden Gaines, siblings: Bill (Mary) Doyle, Ann (Randy) Gulley, John (Ronda) Doyle, Ellen Doyle & Margaret McGonigal, and many loving nieces, nephews & friends. She was also preceded in death by her parents.
Following cremation at Angelcrest Crematory a private family ceremony will be held.
GUESTBOOK
Thinking of all of you at this time. Sending love... -Margaret (O'Connor) Lavin and family
Theresa, your star will always burn the brightest. There will never be a day I won’t remember your laugh or your jokes. You were truly one of a kind and I’ll miss you forever. Thank you for being a great friend and accepting me as your family. James and I love you. -Bria Ringo LaFollette
I wish things would've been so different, I can't believe you are gone my baby sister. When you were born I was so mad you took my position as baby, I mean I wasn't quite 5 years old. But then we got closer, when you had Riley you let me stay in the room. You said because of my disease if I never would be able to have children you wanted me to experience it, lol we laughed about never thinking I'd be seeing parts of you that I did. So many memories keep flooding back and you were too young to leave us, mainly to leave Riley but I didn't know your mental health was so bad after Joe passed, things in our family got so messed up. I love you and will always love and miss you, give mom and dad a kiss and hug from me. I was singing momma makita the other day, you drove us all nuts singing it all the time but now it makes me smile. Know that we all love you, you are no longer in pain and sick. All of that is now gone and you are free and at peace. Love, Margaret (Doyle) McGonigal
