Theresa M. Diaz Gamble-Gilbert, 58, left her loved ones early Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2016, surrounded by friends and family after struggling with a long-term illness.

Theresa worked years dedicated in human services, working with battered women and children, people with developmental disabilities, homeless teens, victims of sexual abuse and prostitution, victims of AIDS and was dedicated to advocating in gay communities.

Theresa enjoyed being with her two dogs, Tia and Rosco. She enjoyed the simple things in life — rocks, countryside road trips, garage sales, thrift stores and dumpster diving. She loved cooking and feeding family, friends and strangers. She loved to listen to Curt play his guitars andmusic and yes — his jokes.

Theresa is survived by Curtis Gilbert of Austin; daughters Tonya Gamble of Minneapolis and Sarah Lynn Gamble of Minneapolis; adopted sons Damon (Dusty) Cardona of Albert Lea, Henjo Madrigal of Albert Lea and Spencer Guy; grandsons Dashaw Gamble of Minneapolis and Trayvon McGienze of Minneapolis; mother, Sarah Wirtjes; stepfather, Don Wirtjes, of Albert Lea; sister, Pauline Iverson, of Albert Lea; close friends Margaret (Patsy) Madrigal, Rosie Ramos, Theresa Harriman, Julie Tellas, Georgia Ranmaker, Dawn Ross and Jill Simmons; and numerous friends who were dear to Theresa.

She was preceded in death by three brothers, Joesph Diaz, Cornelius “Corn Dog” and William “Willie” Diaz; stepfather, Stan Suiter (a wonderful man); father, Paul Diaz; grandparents William and Mariea Villarreal and Cornelious and Jessica Diaz; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Notice of formal services will follow at a later date.

“Remember me with laughter and smiles. If you can only remember me with tears then don’t remember me at all.”