Theresa "Terri" Ann Spence

Theresa “Terri” Ann Spence, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away on October 3, 2025, just days shy of her 68th birthday. She was born on October 14, 1957, in New Prague, MN, to Gerald Elmer and Joleyn Grace (Stiller) Boudin. Growing up in a loving family, she briefly lived in Waterville with her grandparents while her own family built their home in nearby Madison Lake. 

Terri was raised in a devout household, attending Catholic grade school in Madison Lake before graduating from Mankato East High School in 1976. During her high school years, she shone brightly on the swim team, setting the stage for a life defined by tenacity and determination. It was at a roller rink that she met her soulmate, Steven Spence, and on a snowy April 4, 1981, they exchanged vows at St. Teresa Catholic Church in Mapleton, marking the beginning of a shared journey filled with love and adventure in the Amboy and Vernon Center areas. 

Together, Terri and Steven welcomed two beautiful children, Brittany and Jessy, who would go on to fill their lives with joy and laughter. Terri's early work history included her role as a paramedic, showcasing her innate desire to help others. She later channeled her passion for service into her career as a beautician, owning and operating Something Special Beauty Salon and later worked at Renaissance Salon in Mankato. Her healing touch extended beyond cosmetology. As a spiritual leader, she believed in the transformative powers of crystals and essential oils, sharing her gifts through personal readings and guidance. 

On the farm, Terri worked tirelessly alongside Steven, even taking the wheel of a semi-truck on occasion! The foundation of her life was built on precious moments with her family, especially her adored grandchildren, Hailey, Liam, Autumn, and Dustin who brought her immense joy. 

Terri was known for her stubborn spirit and unwavering determination, traits that endeared her to all who knew her. She found solace in flower and vegetable gardening, even while bravely navigating her allergy to bees.

Terri is survived by her husband, Steve Spence of Vernon Center; daughter, Brittany (Melvin) Thomas and their children, Hailey and Liam; son, Jessy (Nicole) Spence and their children, Autumn and Dustin; siblings, Gerald “Jerry” Boudin, Randy Brodeen, and Jeannie Brodeen; niece, Ashley (Josh) Andrews and Corey Zanghi; three sisters-in-law; two brothers-in-law; as well as nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Victoria “Vicky” Zanghi; and mother-in-law and father-in-law, Grace and Stan Spence.

Family and friends are warmly invited to gather in celebration of Terri’s life from 1-4pm, Saturday, November 29, 2025 at Northview – North Mankato Mortuary. Please share your favorite memory with her family at www.mankatomortuary.com