Theresa Santema Miedema, 96, was called home on December 24, 2025, at Community Hospice of Fernandina Beach to reunite with her husband and youngest daughter. She was born in Huizum, Friesland, on December 26, 1928, named “Tetje Santema” by her late parents, Albert Santema and Rienkje Bavius Santema. Having lost her mother when she was three years old, Theresa grew up in Uithoorn, Holland during World War II; along with her two sisters. Enduring severe hardships, her family helped nurse Allied soldiers and shelter refugees.

After the war, Theresa met her husband of 56 years, Johannes (John) Miedema, an airline mechanic with the KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. They were married on March 7, 1950, and lived in Curacao for several years. After moving back to Leeuwarden, Theresa and John welcomed two children, Rienkje (Rina) and Linda, into their home. Their children remember their Moeder and Vader as kind, loving, and selfless. In 1956, they moved their family to America so their children could have a better life and achieve the American dream.

Theresa and her husband raised their family near Hackettstown, New Jersey, where she worked at Aerial Lighting and Research Inc. for 20+ years. Theresa’s hobbies were playing the organ, crocheting, knitting, and sewing clothes for her family. After retirement, they moved to Titusville, Florida, where Theresa and her husband enjoyed traveling, hosting the organ club, attending Temple Baptist Church, cruising, and playing games with friends. After her husband passed away, Theresa moved closer to be with family in Fernandina Beach, Florida where she enjoyed attending The Just Friends group at the Council of Aging, playing Bingo and Rummy Cub, and having fun with family. She was loved by all for her sense of humor and gentle soul.

Theresa leaves behind her daughter, Rina Aukje Jones (Douglas Roland); local grandchildren, Theresa Fay Cauthen (Beau), Cynthia Aukje Gibson (Ian), Douglas Alfred Jones (Emily) and others; along with multiple great grandchildren.

There will be a Celebration of Life and graveside service at Bosque Bello Cemetery in Fernandina Beach at yet an undetermined time. Donations may be made in Theresa’s memory to the Council of Aging in Fernandina Beach, Florida.