Theresa Akiko Burkey, devout mother, grandmother, great-grandmother

Theresa Akiko (Cruz) Burkey, 90, was called home to be with the Lord Thursday, June 5, 2025. A devout mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and servant of faith, Theresa, affectionately known as Terry and Mimaw, lived a life of humility, prayer, and selflessness that continues to inspire all who knew her.

Terry was born March 26, 1935, in Honolulu, Hawaii, but grew up in San Francisco, Calif. Having endured a difficult childhood and the internment camps during WWII due to her Japanese ancestry, Terry went on to raise seven children, mostly on her own. Her greatest joy was being with family, doing puzzles and word games, gardening, and rescuing wayward animals. A lifelong learner, Terry enjoyed experiencing new things, taking on new jobs, and developing new ways of thinking. She was a regular volunteer at various local organizations and particularly enjoyed mentoring disadvantaged youth. Mimaw’s stories, wisdom, and unconditional love shaped the lives of her grandchildren and everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She is survived by four of her children, Lawrence, Charles, Jerri and Randy; 11 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and her brother, Pete. She joins her deceased children, George, Beverly and Glenn, in eternal rest.

A Celebration of Life luncheon will be held at 1 p.m., Sunday, July 13, at Milton CHEER Center, 24855 Broadkill Road, Milton.

In lieu of flowers, support a local animal shelter.

Terry leaves behind a legacy of grace and faith. Her light will forever endure in the lives she has blessed.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com/obituaries/theresa-burkey