Terry Stremel

(From Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary)

Ret. Lt. Col. Teresa Josette Stremel, affectionately known as Terry, 77, of Olathe, Kansas, formerly of Joplin, Missouri, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2024, after months of failing health at the Santa Marta Care Center in Olathe, Kansas. Born on December 6, 1946, in Garden City, Kansas, Terry's life was marked by her intelligence, selflessness, and passionate spirit.

Raised in Joplin, Missouri, Terry was graduate of McAuley Catholic High School class of 1964. Her thirst for knowledge led her to the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, Kansas, where she completed her undergraduate studies. After teaching school for a few years, Terry's commitment to justice and service guided her to the UMKC School of Law, setting the stage for a distinguished legal and military career.







In 1975, Terry enlisted in the United States Air Force, where she served with honor and distinction as a Staff Judge Advocate. Her exemplary service culminated in her retirement with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 2003. Following her military career, Terry continued her legal work as an attorney for NASA in Washington, D.C. Her dedication to lifelong learning saw her return to academia at Georgetown University, further enriching her expertise and legal acumen.

Upon leaving Washington, Terry returned to Kansas City, where she provided her invaluable services as Legal Counsel for the Social Security Administration. Her professional achievements were a testament to her dedication to her country and community, and her work impacted the lives of many.

Terry's personal life was as rich and fulfilling as her professional one. She was a devoted mother to her two children, Nicholas Stremel of Kansas City, Missouri, and Sonya Stremel of Overland Park, Kansas. Her joy was multiplied with the birth of her granddaughter, Elisa Stremel, who brought immense happiness to her later years.

She is also survived by her three siblings, Philip Stremel and wife, Elaine, of Joplin, Missouri; Judge Gregory Stremel and wife, Kristen, of Joplin, Missouri; and Dr. Katrina Goddard and husband, Ian, of Yorkshire, England; a brother-in-law, Tom Jalonack (Brenda’s husband) as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

Terry was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Marguerite (Sharp) Stremel, and a sister, Brenda Stremel. Her family takes comfort in knowing that she is reunited with her loved ones who passed before her.

Beyond her professional and family life, Terry had a passion for traveling, reading, and knitting. These interests allowed her to explore new cultures, expand her knowledge, and express her creativity. Her intelligence shone through in her insightful conversations and her ability to solve complex problems, whether in her legal work or in the intricate patterns of her knitting. She lived a life of purpose and meaning, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and excellence. Her passion for justice and her dedication to her family and country will remain an inspiration to all who knew her.

Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Tuesday morning March 12, 2024 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Joplin, Missouri at 11:00 a.m. with Father Brian Straus officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Webb City, Missouri. 

Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Nicholas Stremel, Philip Stremel, Gregory Stremel, Alex Stremel, Daniel Goddard, and Tom Jalonack. A Rosary will be recited on Monday evening at 5:00 p.m. at Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary in Joplin with visitation to follow until 7:00 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are being directed to St. Peter’s Outreach House c/o the mortuary. Arrangements are under the care of Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary in Joplin, Missouri.