Theresa M. James

Age 52 of Forest Lake.

A loving wife, mother, daughter, and sister, passed away unexpectedly following a courageous battle with cancer on September 7, 2026.

Theresa was born and raised in Stillwater and graduated from Hill-Murray High School in 1992. At a young age, Theresa discovered her talent and passion for dancing, captivating audiences with her remarkable stage presence and radiant smile. She graduated from the College of Saint Benedict, where the women she met led to lifelong friendships.

She married Jeremy James in 2001 and later moved to Forest Lake, where they raised their family. Being a mother and wife was Theresa’s ultimate joy; she was deeply involved in her sons’ lives, spending countless hours at the rink watching them live out their passion. 

She had a love for the outdoors, spending time at the cabin, snowmobiling, or simply taking in a beautiful evening sunset. Later in life, she cherished creating new memories in Fort Myers Beach, soaking in the sun and relaxing on the water with her family. Theresa’s legacy will live on through her loved ones, whose lives have been forever enriched by her love.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Bob and Dorothy Hejny, and Maureen Gosselin.

Theresa is survived by her husband of 25 years, Jeremy; their boys, Joe and Tommy; parents, Dave and Colleen Hejny; brother, Bobby Hejny; sister, Jenelle (Zeke) Strawbridge and their children, Ali and Sam; mother-in-law, Linda (Jim) Willette; brother-in-law, Jeff (Ramsey) James; and many other relatives and dear friends.

Celebration of Life Details

A celebration of Theresa’s life will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with a memorial ceremony beginning at 4:00 PM. The gathering will take place at Roberts Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, located at 555 SW Centennial Dr, Forest Lake, MN.