Theresa Ann Burns-Ireland

Theresa Ann Burns-Ireland passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, at the age of 66, in the arms of her daughter.

She was born on November 17, 1959, in Ukiah, California, and was raised in the Medford area, where she graduated from Crater High School. Shortly after, on January 17, 1977, she met the love of her life, Mike. Together they built a life rooted in love and commitment, sharing 40 years of partnership and a relationship many idolized. They went on to raise two daughters and spent eight years living in Salem before returning home to the Rogue Valley.

Theresa began her working life in her grandmother’s restaurant in Central Point during her teenage years. She later worked for the Oregon Department of Corrections before becoming a caseworker for the Department of Human Services in Salem, where she served for many years until health challenges led to her retirement. She took great pride in her work and the difference she made in the lives of others.

Known for her generous spirit, Theresa truly had a heart of gold. She would give the shirt off her back to help anyone in need. She set aside her own hobbies to fully embrace her role as the matriarch of her family, always ensuring those she loved were cared for. She found immense joy in spoiling children, especially her grandchildren, and was a second mother to many of Michelle and Melissa’s friends.

Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 11, Theresa attended Gales Creek Diabetic Camp throughout her youth—an experience she cherished. She spent much of her life encouraging others to care for their health, even during times when she struggled with her own.

Theresa is survived by her daughters, Melissa Ireland-Bartlett and Michelle Moore, and their spouses, Bret and Casey; her beloved grandchildren, Liam and Thomas; her sister, Brenda Salyers; her mother, Lillian Burns; her best friend, Cherry; and many extended members of the Moore family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Mike Ireland; her father, Earl Burns; and her twin at birth.

The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care provided by Providence Hospice, especially her nurse, Lorraine, whose kindness and support helped make Theresa’s passing as peaceful as possible.

Please share a memory of Theresa in her Guestbook.