Theresa “Tessie” Montalvo passed away on September 27, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona. She was born on December 31, 1941, in Flagstaff, Arizona, and lived a life marked by compassion, energy, and devotion to others.

Tessie attended high school in Flagstaff, where her story began before she later moved to Tucson, where she resided. She was a caregiver by trade and by heart, a woman whose generosity reached far beyond her own home. She cared for countless people who were less fortunate and living near her in South Tucson, offering kindness, help, and comfort in ways that reflected her deeply giving nature.

She will be remembered as spunky, vivacious, caring, honorable, loving, giving, and selfless. Those qualities were evident in the way she lived each day and in the many lives she touched. Tessie found joy in simple and meaningful pleasures, including bingo, going to the casino and crocheting. In the kitchen, she was especially known for her tortillas, tamales and red chile, gifts of love that brought comfort and connection to those around her. She also had a special tenderness for animals and took in many pets over the years, especially cats.

Among the greatest joys of her life were her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who stood as her proudest accomplishment and deepest blessing. She is survived by her children, Monica Romero, Angela Cervantes, Selena Montalvo, Cynthia Gonzalez, Marcos Montalvo, and Estevan Rodriguez; 17 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren as well as her extended family and friends. She is also survived by her siblings, Myra Hernandez, Louis Jimenez, and Mary Ortiz. The love she gave to her family was constant and enduring, and her presence will remain a cherished part of their lives.

She was preceded in death by her grandsons, Marcos Palacio and Andres Montalvo; parents and 7 siblings. Their memories remained part of her family’s story and are held with love.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Martinez Funeral Chapels - Tucson, 2580 S 6th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85713. A Rosary will be prayed that same evening at 6:00 p.m. at Martinez Funeral Chapels - Tucson. A Mass will be celebrated on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St Margaret Mary Parish, 801 N Grande Ave, Tucson, AZ 85745. There will be a celebration of life following the funeral at Manny and Cindy's.

Theresa “Tessie” Montalvo will be remembered for the warmth of her heart, the strength of her spirit, and the care she gave so freely to family, friends, neighbors, and all who crossed her path. Her life was a blessing, and her memory will be treasured always.