Theresa Ann King

Theresa Ann Silva King

Born on March 20, 1937, in Plymouth, Massachusetts, Theresa Ann Silva King was the cherished daughter of Mary and Justin Silva. Her father was from Cape Verde, and her mother was from the Azores, Portugal. The youngest of 14 siblings—Charles, Grace, Innocence, Jeanette, Rita, Manuel, Irene, Justin, Antone, Roy, Georgianna, Joseph, and Robert—Theresa grew up surrounded by the love and energy of a large family.

She was raised on a family farm where hard work was a way of life. The Silvas grew their own crops, raised livestock, and gathered each day for meals made with care and tradition. Her mother, Mary, baked fresh bread daily and taught her daughters to cook with both skill and love. Sundays were always reserved for church, no matter the weather. If conditions made it difficult to get there, one of the brothers would lead a sermon along the way. When asked how church was, the answer was always a simple, "Good."

At age 15, Theresa moved to California with her parents and several siblings. She often joked, "If I hadn't moved to California, I could've been Head Majorette!" While attending McClatchy High School in Sacramento, she met the love of her life, Orland King. They married on January 29, 1955, and raised five children together, building a strong and loving home.

Throughout her life, Theresa held various jobs—including domestic work and a position with the State of California—but her greatest devotion was to her family. As a homemaker, she was extraordinary. Her creativity and talents seemed limitless: she sewed, crocheted, baked, gardened, decorated, and crafted with passion and care. She had a reputation for baking the most delicious pies—Marie Callender's had nothing on her!

Theresa was a woman of unwavering faith who found joy in serving others. She was a member of St. Anne's Catholic Church, Capital Christian Center, and Harvest Church. Her warmth and generosity were felt by everyone she met. She had a remarkable ability to form genuine connections, making people feel seen and appreciated in even the briefest encounters.

Those who knew Theresa will remember the light she brought into every room. Her presence uplifted others, not with grand gestures, but with kindness, humor, and the kind of sincere attention that made people feel truly known. Her soul radiated love and strength. She didn't just touch lives—she transformed them.

Her deep devotion to her family was a guiding force in her life. She prayed faithfully over her children and grandchildren, speaking encouragement and blessing into each of them. Her love was constant and unconditional.

Theresa was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Orland King, and her dear son, Orland Jr. She is survived by her children: Brian Sr., Sherri Colston (Bruce), Lori Allen (Mark), and Tiffany; 13 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren—with another blessing on the way—and a host of loving relatives and friends.

Theresa's legacy is one of faith, family, and fierce love. She will be remembered always for the beauty she brought into the world—and the way she made everyone around her feel at home.