
Teresa Ann (Guthrie) Cleveland was born October 10, 1958 at St. John’s Hospital in Tulsa, OK. She grew up with her brothers and sister in the Swan Lake neighborhood. Typical of Catholic families at that time, they threw paper routes, attended school; her brothers played hockey and Teresa was a swimmer. In high school she was a lifeguard at McClure Park and the Harvard Club. Teresa was a 1976 graduate of Booker T. Washington High School which was a newly formed magnate school.
Teresa began her professional career at 19 working as a corporate travel agent which span for the next 40+ years. Her clients were top business travelers as well as their families which Teresa booked their trips all over the world. Teresa’s clientele spanned throughout generations. They were favorites of hers as she was of theirs. She remained at the top of her industry until her retirement in 2019.
Teresa married Jeff Cleveland in 1998 and they moved to Owasso, OK. In 1999 The Owasso Golf and Athletic Club opened. As an avid swimmer, Teresa was a fixture at the pools for the next 23 seasons. Jeff played golf so they each enjoyed the club, separately but together. It was great. The friends and employees became family. Teresa then joined Trident Aquatics Club so she could now swim year-round.
She stayed just as busy in her neighborhood. She and Jeff lived on the same corner for over 25 years and neighborhood walks were their routine. The neighbors witnessed some of their best disagreements during these walks and many friends were made along this route. Some joining the walk or joining Teresa in conversation. Jeff referred to her as the “Mayor of Owasso” because she had to meet and talk to everyone.
Teresa was instrumental in forming the neighborhood homeowner’s affiliation. Mainly for the picnics at the local park and driveway parties that we are famous for in Elm Creek Estates. Of course, Teresa had to take it a step further and was one of the early members of the OWASSO CARES PROGRAM where the city and private sector came together to improve quality of life in neighborhoods and communities. She never took a break from her own home, which was perfect in every way from design, to building furniture and a screened in porch.
Teresa is survived by her husband of over 25 years, Jeff Cleveland; brothers, Larry, Greg, and David Guthrie of Washington DC, Ross and Amy Guthrie of St Louis Park, MN; sister, Mary Harris of Maui, HI; brother, Bruce Guthrie of Tulsa, and brother, Paul Guthrie of Owasso; several nieces, nephews as well as great nieces and great nephews.
Teresa was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Helen Guthrie.
Teresa’s request was to not have a formal service but her husband and friends said, “not happening.” A celebration of Teresa’s life is being planned for early 2024.
Friends may contribute in Teresa’s memory to PortaCaeliHouse.org. There is a link on their website or mail to 2440 North Harvard Ave., Tulsa, Ok 74115.
Teresa was so friendly and outgoing. We had great conversations as we worked out on the Elliptical machines at Owasso Golf and Athletic Club. I miss seeing her and Jeff walking the neighborhood and stopping by to visit. We had a lot in common and always had plenty to talk about. We knew each other for probably 5 years before discovering we both had the same maiden name and figured we were probably distant cousins. I was proud to claim her as a cousin. She strived to be a friend to all and make the world a better place. I will remember her fondly until we meet again on the other side.
Sherry Hughett
Teresa was a joy to have around. She was always thoughtful, perhaps sometimes too contemplative for her own good, but always kind and deliberate. Soft-spoken, but powerful with her words that she chose so carefully. I don't think I ever heard her say something she didn't mean. I was thankful to have her on the World Travel Team for a long as I did. Always the consummate professional, her clients raved about what a pleasure it was to work with her. I always found that when she came to me, it was for a good reason or simply to say "thank you" for something I might have done for her, when I was the one that was thankful for all her efforts. I have missed her dry sense of humor and our deep conversations about travel, work, politics and life since her retirement in 2019. She was an asset and a blessing.
Alex Eaton
Teresa was one of the first to welcome our young family to the neighborhood over 13 years ago. From there our friendship with Teresa and Jeff has grown with shared food, visits to the pool with the kids, neighborhood volunteering, and driveway conversations. Each of my three children always knew Teresa and Jeff were within reach if they needed anything. Teresa was particular about the appearances of her home and her yard, and her classic clothing style when she went out. I loved that about her and have missed her appearance so much in the past couple years. Though Teresa was not a mother, she carried mothering qualities in her care and compassion, and the way she noticed things and used discernment as to the right time to mention the subject. I received a gift from Teresa at my daughter's high school graduation. It was a children's book about a mother's love and a handwritten note applauding me for the time invested in my children during that milestone for our family. I will forever treasure her words in her handwriting. Teresa is and will continue to be missed. Until me meet again, dear friend.... Missy Davidson
Missy Davidson
A lifelong friendship is a beautiful gift. Teresa and I were blessed with a 40 plus year friendship. We shared many experiences, lunches, and long conversations. If I was ever faced with a proper etiquette question I would think “what would Teresa do?” and I would then know the answer. Jeff, Teresa, Larry, and I took a vacation to Lake Tahoe. Teresa had a pinecone collection. Several years later she gifted a pinecone from that trip to Larry for his 65th birthday. It holds a special place in our home and in our hearts. Teresa was kind. She was thoughtful. She was interested and engaged in all those she cared about. Teresa lived her life on her terms. We will miss her deeply. May her precious soul rest in peace. Lovingly, Larry and Marilyn Belcher
Marilyn Belcher
Teresa was a very caring and thoughtful friend. She took me under her wing the first time I volunteered with Owasso Cares and from that day forward our friendship blossomed. Teresa was always just a phone call away anytime I needed a pep talk. Her soothing voice and kind words would make everything okay again. Even though I will miss her and our talks, I know she will still be listening any time I need.
Krystal Tipton
Teresa had a beautiful voice. She spoke intelligently with a smooth, deep voice that always made you feel at ease and comfortable in the conversation. I am sure her rich lovely voice played a big role in her successful career. After retirement, I encouraged her to use her voice as a narrator or even a make a podcast. I will always remember her voice.
Kim Phelps
Teresa was special. I feel fortunate to have know her as a friend and neighbor. She was kind, caring and thoughtful. She could make you have a better day just stopping by and saying a few words when she and Jeff were out walking around the neighborhood. She was loved by so many and the world is a better place because she lived here.
Betty and Louis Ward
Teresa was one of the most special people I have ever known. She was always a voice of reason. She had one of the kindest spirits I had ever been around. I was blessed to have her as my aunt and friend. Many of my childhood memories include her. The swims we took, the food we made, the laughs we shared. I will always remember her kind heart and her sweet voice calling me “Kels.” There are some people who will stay with you forever and she is one of them.
Kelsey Snyder
I worked with Teresa from 1995 until 2006. She was focused, but fun. Since we both took breaks outside, we did a lot of conversing. She was a sweet person, with a great sense of humor. The world seems a little less 'right' with this sad news. Fly high my beautiful friend.
Denise McKisick
Teresa visiting with City Councilor Bonebrake prior to leading a group of volunteers at Owasso CARES Day of Service. Teresa coordinating with other Owasso CARES Leaders before Day of Service begins. Teresa was always so friendly and good about interacting with other Owasso CARES Leaders and our volunteers.
Jerry Fowler
Teresa joined our family when I was 15 years old. I was immediately drawn to her. She was well-thought and well-spoken. I was happy to see how happy she made my uncle. One thing that always stood out to me was the honor and respect that she showed to my grandparents. When there were family functions, I always enjoyed sitting by Teresa. I will never forget the support she gave me during the most difficult season of my life. Teresa will be greatly missed.
Michael Cleveland
My first acquaintance with Teresa was through her husband, Jeff. Jeff and Teresa extended a welcome when I went to work at the same place with Jeff. Later, Teresa coordinated my trip to Rome to see my daughter while she was studying abroad. This was my first solo trip abroad. One of my initial flights was cancelled and of course, slight panic set in. Teresa was the voice of calm and reason to make sure I was able to continue on the trip without further delay. I will never forget how kind and caring and reassuring she was during that time. Those acts of kindness extended to me from Teresa have not been forgotten. Her caring has touched many more lives. May the shared memories of Teresa bring comfort to Jeff and her family. With sympathy and prayers, Carol Morris.
Carol Morris
Teresa was my neighbor and friend for 25 years. I always thought she was the smartest lady! We did fun projects and walked many miles together. I knew I could count on Teresa for advice and planning and just being my friend. Teresa had lovely manners and I always hoped they would rub off on me. The neighborhood we loved will never be the same without her presence. I will miss her very much.
Leisa Gilleland