Teresa Jean (Clausen) McFayden
July 23, 1964 – October 30, 2024
Teresa Jean McFayden, age 60, of Omaha, NE, gained her angel wings in the comfort of her home on Wednesday, October 30, 2024.
She was born in Carroll, IA, and graduated from Valley High School in West Des Moines, IA, (mascot “Lions, roar!” she’d joke). She later moved to Omaha to study education at UNO, where she met the love of her life, Jim, on his 21st birthday at the Howard Street Tavern. She even gave him her coat because he was cold, chivalry was alive and well. They moved to Tampa in their twenties and wed on December 30, 1988. (36 years!)
A career in the arts perfectly suited her talents and passions. She even hosted a TV show, Stampin’ and Scrappin’ With Teresa McFayden, in the 2000s. Later, she started a paper arts company, Foof-a-la, and opened a storefront in Omaha’s Bel Air Plaza, where artists would gather to take her classes. She founded Silver Bella, a weekend holiday forum where creators from all over the country (and world!) gathered to learn, share, and create together. Teresa’s art is featured in magazines, art shows, on television, in restaurants, and in the homes of her loved ones. She shared her talents far and wide through online and in-person classes, conventions, and one-on-one lessons.
She enjoyed many, many things, among them were hiking national parks, beach travels with Jim, toasting glasses of pinot grigio, vanilla lattes (and sipping gingerbread lattes well into the spring), tending to her flower garden, journaling, a good Target run, smooth shinies¹, a warm keek², chicken som’bish³, Tom Brady—I mean—the Buccaneers, and, above all, her family and faith.
She despised the saying “it is what it is” and had zero working knowledge of complicated TV remotes and streaming services.
Teresa radiated warmth and joy. Her smile, her personality—everything about her shined. She found reasons to celebrate in even the smallest of moments, always seeing the glass as half full. Her presence was a gift, bringing happiness and light to everyone around her. She was the most devoted and supportive mother to Allison (Allie), Alexander (Drake), and Andrew (AJ).
After a quick and aggressive fight with cancer, she spent her final weeks and days peacefully surrounded by family.
A tremendous and heartfelt thanks goes to the exceptional nurses at Bergan Mercy Hospital, CHI Home Health Services, and CHI Health Hospice care, who provided a peaceful and compassionate environment for her during her transition from this life to the next.
She was preceded in death by her father, Dallas Clausen, and her sister, Corrine Harrell.
She is survived by her mother, Jane Hughes; husband, Jim McFayden; children, Allison Ward (Austin), Drake McFayden, Andrew McFayden; granddaughter, Ella Ward; and a host of other relatives and friends.
- Smooth Jewelry/Rocks
- Blanket
- One of five chicken dishes that would make the family come “running to the kitchen table”.
VISITATION: Thursday, November 7, 2024, 5:00-7:00PM at West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha.
FUNERAL SERVICE: Friday, November 8, 2024, 10:30AM at West Center Chapel.
INTERMENT: Resurrection cemetery
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Teresa to the 402 Arts Collective https://secure.givelively.org/donate/402-arts-collective/teresa-mcfayden-memorial-fund
To view live broadcasts of the service, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.
11 Comments
Jim and family, I am so sorry to hear that her life was cut short. She was one of the shining lights in this big beautiful world. She made everything look like an adventure. She truly was one of my very favorite artist. Her work was magical and beautiful , I have 3 of her paintings. They to this day are still my favorite pieces. She will be missed, a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, she will be missed by so many! Blessings to you all ❤️
Prayers and condolences to all!
We are heartbroken to hear about Teresa’s passing. Please know that we are holding you and your family close in our hearts during this incredibly difficult time. Teresa was a remarkable person who touched so many lives with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering strength. Her memory will live on in the love she shared and the beautiful moments she created with those around her.
May you find comfort in these memories and in the support of those who care deeply for you. We are here for you, and we’re sending all our love and deepest sympathies.
With all our love,
Jeff and Karen Lambert
I knew Teresa for about a year while she taught me private art lessons through the 402 Collective. We would talk not only about art, but her life, her children, her baby grandaughter, Ella, and our mutual love of the outdoors and national parks. I had the pleasure of not only learning from her but getting to know her as a person. She radiated positivity, warmth, and always made me laugh when she got a bit ticked off because it was so out of character for her. When she spoke about her family I could tell how proud she was of each and every one of them, particularly her daughter Allie, with whom she seemed to have a very close, beautiful relationship with. I am so very sad to learn about Teresa’s passing and look forward to be able to tell her loved ones about her positive impact on my life at the visitation next Thursday.
Sending all of my love,
Anna Moritz Kelm
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your wife, mother, friend, etc. I can’t imagine all you have gone through. I had the honor of getting to know Theresa last winter through the 402 Arts Collective. I was a new instructor and she gave me tons of tips and resources. Over coffee, she shared about her family. I reached out to her this summer and fall via text. A few weeks ago I sent her a text and the kindness that is just Theresa… I shared I was praying for her and she shared back how she was praying for me as we have had some similar health journey challenges. She shared how she couldn’t wait to get back to art making. She is dearly missed. God bless you all during this difficult time.
Prayers and Condolences,
Beth McGrath
We are saddened by the news. We are also celebrating her forever future in the presence of God. Sending our love and prayers.
Teresa was a truly a bright light. Over the years I got to know her through her art and later Young Living having the pleasure of traveling with her to Utah. I will treasure that memory and her art I’m fortunate to have in my home. My prayers for peace and comfort you all now and in the days ahead
jim and family, i had the pleasure and honor of working with teresa. she was a bright light in my day. teresa taught me so much about art. i am grateful to own some of her artwork, which i see every day. the impact teresa has left on so many people cannot be overstated. there will be a new bright star in the heavens to continually shine upon us. thank you, teresa, for being that star on earth. with love and sadness.
I know your sister, Jo. Sorry for your loss. She left y’all with wonderful, loving memories.
Please Accept Our Sincere Condolences from Her Valley High Tigers Friends and Family, Especially the Class of 1982!
Jim and family – Connie, Susie and I were so saddened to hear of Theresa’s recent passing. She left this world way too soon. We will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. Take care -your cousins – Leslie Bock, Connie Komin, and Sue Dahl
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