Theresa (Tee Jay) Jennifer Larsen, 51

Theresa (Tee Jay) Jennifer Larsen passed away Oct. 12, 2026, following a brief hospice stay. In her final moments, she was surrounded by the comfort and peace formed by the love of her closest family.

Tee Jay was born in Staten Island, N.Y., on Jan. 24, 1975, to her mother Tere. Tee Jay moved to Kellogg in her early childhood, where Tere would meet Chris Jacobson, who would raise her and be known as Tee Jay's dad.

In her teens, Tee Jay returned to New York and Florida before returning to Idaho at 19 and welcoming her son, Christopher, into the world. Tee Jay worked various jobs in Silver Valley, moved to Nevada for 5 years with her family, and ultimately lived in the Kellogg area for the rest of her life.

Tee Jay successfully completed a dental assisting program at Carrington College in 2011. While in school, she worked part-time as a server at a local restaurant. This is where she found a passion that became so much more than just a job. During the approximately 9 years Tee Jay was employed at Sam's restaurant, she cultivated numerous friendships with people from all over the world. Whether just passing through town or coming for their daily breakfast, many people came to Sam's just to visit with Tee Jay.

Being a very social person, Tee Jay found joy in connecting with people, making everyone feel welcome, and turning everyday interactions into meaningful moments.

Never complaining about having little sister Mary in tow on her shirt tail probably prepared Theresa to be a very devoted mother and grandmother. Her children will tell you she was far more than just a mom; she was a best friend and trusted confidante. Building a bond based on honesty, trust, laughter and unconditional love. She carried the same deep connection into being a grandmother. Her love for her grandchildren is immeasurable.

In the summer of 1989, Tee Jay met the love of her life, Aaron Larsen. The two were close friends for years, eventually beginning a relationship in 2004 and marrying in 2012. Through all the seasons of her life, one relationship that remained the center of her story was Aaron. Though their marriage came to an end in 2021, their bond never will. Their relationship had evolved, but when it was time to say goodbye, Theresa knew Aaron would be there by her side — a final expression of their connection.

Tee Jay loved to travel, and her passport included stamps from South America and Europe. She was always up for a new adventure or hobby. She loved expressing herself through art and showed talent in several mediums, including painting, scrapbooking, beadwork, coloring, and drawing. She was also an excellent marksman and cook.

Theresa was preceded in death by her mother, Tere.  

She is survived by her son, Christopher (Asia) Spiers, and stepdaughters Tommi (Michael) Larsen-Senteney and Kaci (Garrett) Burt; devoted sister, Mary Jacobson, step-brother Jeremiah Jacobson, and father Chris Jacobson — several grandchildren, aunts, uncles and cousins.

She leaves behind a lifetime of memories, a family who loved her deeply, and countless people whose lives were made brighter simply because they knew her.

A celebration of life to honor Tee Jay will be held at 1 p.m. Nov. 7, 2026, at The Broken Wheel in Kellogg. There will be a taco bar, with fun stories and memories to share. Please wear purple, as it was her favorite color. Everyone is welcome who would like to take part.