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TERWILLIGER -- Reyes Elvira (Vera) Terwilliger was born in Trementina, New Mexico in 1937 to Celedon L. Apodaca and Dominga Apodaca, both of whom preceded her in death, died April 7, 2004. She was also preceded in death by her brother, William J. Cook. Vera is survived by her beloved husband, Donald F. Terwilliger of Los Lunas, NM (who refers to her as the "World's Greatest Wife"), and two wonderful sons: Arthur (Tony) Burnette of Corrales, his girlfriend Julie, and daughter Danielle; Michael J.Terwilliger of Los Lunas, his wife Tamara, and their children Kyle, Kristin and Jacob. She is also survived by two brothers, Clyde Apodaca, and Jimmy Apodaca and wife Carmen, and one sister, Francis Gandara and husband Tony, as well as several nieces, nephews, aunts and cousins. Mrs. Terwilliger was raised in Las Vegas, NM, and moved to Albuquerque where she met her husband, Don. She also traveled extensively throughout Europe and the U.S. Her husband was stationed at Kirtland AFB when Vera was selected as The Kirtland AFB 1974 Military Wife of the Year for "Volunteering Home and Family in Support of Disabled Veterans and Special Olympians." Charitable support included serving as a Red Cross volunteer, cooking and serving dinners at her home for as many as over 30 veterans at one time from the local VA Hospital, and volunteering the family band to play music for the VA Hospital and Special Olympics events. She also handcrafted with TLC stuffed toys and dolls for New Mexico children from nearby smaller communities at Christmas time, and also personally purchased and delivered bags of groceries to special families annually. She truly enjoyed "giving straight from the heart" to needy families in the local area, and felt it was the least she could do in return for the many talents and blessings God gave her. Ms. Terwilliger was especially grateful to Dr. Harriet O. Smith, Dr. Luis Padilla, and Dr. Nagima, and their nursing and other healthcare staff, from the UNM Cancer Research and Treatment Center (CRTC). Knowing fir st hand how important it is for patients undergoing radiation treatment or chemotherapy to "have something to hold on to," she subsequently made very special stuffed "Magic" and "Freedom" bears and delivered them regularly to the children undergoing those therapies at the UNM CRTC. Because of this, Reyes was often referred to as the "Bear Lady" at the CRTC. She also gained a reputation for creating laughter in the nearby waiting room. She also provided treats, from her own recipe creations, to various groups among the CRTC staff. She was especially appreciative of the gentleness and professionalism of the nursing and administrative staff in the UNM Chemotherapy Suite, as well as UNM Hospice. Although she devoted considerable time and effort to charitable activities, she always made time to provide special TLC for her most important priority--her family and very close friends. Her love for, devotion to, and trust in her husband, sons and grandchildren never faltered. Her final wish was to serve God in the protection of children. A Memorial Service will be held at French Mortuary, Lomas Blvd. Chapel, 10500 Lomas Blvd, 3:30 p.m., Saturday, April 10, 2004. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to University Hospice, 1650 University Blvd. NE 87102. French Mortuary 10500 Lomas Blvd. NE 275-3500
        Published on: Fri April 09, 2004