Theresa Louise Beehler, born on July 16, 1956, in Richland, Washington, passed away on May 8, 2025, in Richland, Washington, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and creativity. She was a devoted wife to her husband, Steve Beehler, and a proud mother to her daughter, Karena Morris (Ron). Theresa is survived by her loving mother, Clairetta Payne-White; her siblings, Karen Payne, Mary Jones, Carla Ehlis (Jeff), Joe Payne (MaryAnn); sister-in-law Jaye Payne; and her beloved grandchildren, Autumn Lavender (Luna), Hannah, Cameron, Molly, and Matthew Morris (Kayla), and Krystle Burleson (Marcus). Theresa was preceded in death by her father James Wilson Payne, and her brother James Daniel Payne.

A skilled photographer, Theresa found immense joy in capturing the beauty of the world through her lens, especially during the many adventures she shared with Steve in Mazatlán, Mexico—their favorite getaway. Her passion for storytelling through photography won several awards, showcasing her talent in capturing stunning landscapes. Theresa’s adventurous spirit extended beyond her photography; she had a grand plan to explore breathtaking locations across the globe, always dreaming of novel places to photograph.

Wednesdays featured a special ritual for Theresa and Steve as they enjoyed their “date night” watching “Survivor” and “The Amazing Race.” She delighted in noting all the incredible places featured on the shows that sparked her wanderlust, fueling her desire to travel and experience the world firsthand. Theresa’s enthusiasm for travel and her creative pursuits touched the lives of many, leaving behind a joyful legacy that will be remembered by friends and family.

Theresa loved to play the penny slots in Las Vegas, although she was quite unlucky at it. Trips to Vegas were primarily about seeing Bruno Mars concerts, something she enjoyed five times. If she could have, she would have adopted Bruno Mars. Steve’s early courtship of Theresa was inspired by Bruno’s hit song, “Just the Way You Are.”

Theresa’s unwavering passion to help others was evident during her 11 years at the Hanford Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act Resource Center in Richland. She assisted thousands of individuals and families with receiving medical and/or monetary compensation if their loved one suffered an illness or died because of something they were exposed to while employed at a U.S. Department of Energy facility, such as the Hanford Site.

Theresa’s spirit will live on through the love she shared and the memories she created. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and celebrated for the remarkable woman she was.

A celebration of Theresa’s life will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025, at Einan’s Sunset Gardens in Richland, WA, with a Graveside Service Inurnment beginning at 12:00 pm, followed by a light lunch served at Einan’s Event Center. In lieu of sending flowers, Theresa would be honored if you’d make a donation to her favorite charity, The Autism Science Foundation (ASF).