Theresa Heidlage

(From Lakin Funeral Home)

Theresa Lynn (Cooper) Heidlage of Wentworth, Missouri, passed from this life on Wednesday, March 24, 2021, surrounded by her loving family at her home on the farm that she loved. She was born on April 15, 1962 in Monett, Missouri to J.C. and Paulette (Osborn) Cooper. 

She raised cattle and farmed along with her husband Paul, son Matthew and his wife Kacie. She was a cattle farmer, farm machinery operator, parts runner, and anything and everything to do with living on the farm. 

She is survived by her husband, Paul, of more than 38 years. They were married on November 6, 1982 and to this union was born their beloved son, Matthew.

Theresa is survived by the following: her son, Matthew Heidlage and his wife Kacie (Clonts) of Wentworth; her dear dad, J.C. Cooper and his wife, Sue, also of Wentworth; two sisters, Tina Cooper of Bella Vista, Arkansas, and Leah Heidlage and her husband Dennis of Pierce City. She is also survived by her three “sisters” by marriage Pat (Larry) Carver of Pierce City, Janice (Lowell) Haddock of Pierce City, and Donna Burrows of Grain Valley, Missouri; and by many nieces, nephews, and a multitude of wonderful family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her loving mother Paulette Cooper, and brother-in-law Gerald Burrows.

Theresa enjoyed checking her cows in her little red truck, gardening, gambling, bargain hunting, playing the lottery and a cold chelada. She was an avid gardener and was known locally for her large pumpkin patch that she would invite surrounding families to come and pick pumpkins. She was an excellent cook and made delicious pecan pies. She had a generous heart and was always ready to lend a helping hand.

She was a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church, on Sarcoxie Prairie, where she was president of C.C.W. for several years. She also served as secretary for the Pierce City Fire Department.

We will celebrate her life with a visitation on Monday, March 29th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM with Rosary to follow, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pierce City, with Father Matt Rehrauer officiating. Funeral Mass will be on Tuesday, March 30 at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s. Internment will be directly following the service at St. Agnes Catholic Church on Sarcoxie Prairie. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City, MO.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks.

She loved her family and friends, and was loved by many and will be missed dearly. This is not good-bye, it is see you later. Fly high with the angels!