Teresa Jean Wittel

Teresa Jean Wittel (TJ) (nee Radcliff/Brewer), age 67, Tempe, AZ, passed away on March 11, 2024. Survived by husband, Mike, son, Scott, daughter-in-law Michelle Lee and a large extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dori Brittan (nee Sword) Bill Radcliff and Jack Brewer.

Teresa was a SSgt in the USAF. Stationed at Rhein-Main AB, Germany and Altus AFB, OK. Worked on B-52s, C-9As, C-130Es, MC-130Es, C-141s, KC-135s, and T-39As. She earned an Associate in Arts (AA) degree from Western Oklahoma State College.

She was a voracious reader; devouring thousands of books. Had a wicked sense of humor. Was a seeker of knowledge and wisdom throughout her life. Loved languages and was a true logophile. Worked as a technical writer – continuing her passion with words. Helped translate engineer-speak to English and was a strict enforcer of proper spelling and grammar.

She loved her family and was extremely loyal and loving. She made Halloween costumes and loved to dress-up and pass out treats with her mother. Neighborhood kids would stop by and compliment them both on their great costumes. She watched the seasons change by what sports her son played and became a Dojo mom. Not one to sit on the sidelines, she became a 1st Dan in Okinawan Shuri-ryū right beside her son.

We are simply heartbroken and are lost without her. Life does not seem as vibrant without her: music does not soothe, food does not taste as sweet, home does not feel as warm, and humor has lost some of its laughter. She was a wife, mother, lover, companion, and best friend. There is no amount of time to express what she meant to us: her love, passion, and friendship. We will miss the adventures we shared and were planning. She will be forever in our hearts and souls.

She now can breathe easily and is without pain after a long hard-fought battle, twice with cancer and multiple lung issues.

Celebration of Life and interment services will start at 12:00 PM on Friday, 31 May 2024 at Gilbert Memorial Park, 2100 East Queen Creek Road, Gilbert, AZ 85297. Phone: 480.935.5858. In lieu of cards and flowers, please consider a donation to your local pet/animal rescue center or Plant a Memorial Tree in her honor.