Theresa Alice Rait (Carney), age 73, passed away peacefully on September 29. Family and faith were everything to Theresa. Married to Don for 52 years, this joy-filled couple were a model of love to their five children Chris married to Elana Post, Jacquelyn married to Dave Spence, Elizabeth married to Peter Foster, Patrick married to Falyn Winter, and Matthew married to Katlin Duffy. Grandchildren Mae, Isabel, Joseph, Caitlin, Jessica, Maggie, Nolan, Jonah, and her angels.
Theresa was always positive and had a way of bringing out the best in the people around her. This, matched with her gentle spirit, made her such a great mother and teacher. Theresa taught at St James School in Colgan for over 30 years. Music and song carried her through life, and with her husband, Theresa led the music ministry at St. James Church for 48 years.
Theresa made the choice in her life to always focus on positivity and gratitude even when life threw a curveball. In Theresa’s honour, we ask you to make such a choice today.
Visitations will be held at Rod Abrams Funeral Home 1666 Tottenham Rd., Tottenham on Monday October 2, 2023 from 2-4 and 6-8pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. James Church in Colgan (2118 Adjala Tecumseth Townline, Tottenham) on Tuesday October 3, 2023 at 2pm. Interment will follow in St. James Cemetery.
The family would like to thank Matthew’s House Hospice for their care and support. Donations can be made in Theresa’s memory to St. James Church Colgan Restoration by contacting the parish office at 905-936-4266 or by email at [email protected], or Matthews House Hospice.
Online condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
Service
Visitation
Rod Abrams Funeral Home
1666 Tottenham Rd., Tottenham, ON, L0G1W0
Monday October 2, 2023
2pm - 4pm
Visitation
Rod Abrams Funeral Home
1666 Tottenham Rd., Tottenham ON L0G1W0
Monday October 2, 20236pm - 8pm
Mass of Christian Burial
St. James Church
2118 Adjala Tecumseth Townline, Tottenham, ON
Tuesday October 3, 20232pm
Stephen Szabo says
My condolences to the Rait Family. Mrs Rait was one of the best teachers I had at St James.
Jodie Guillemette says
As a young little girl going to St. James Church back in the 70’s and 80’s, I was fascinated by the couple at the front singing their heart out and leading our congregation in song. Who was this cool couple playing guitar (and no traditional organ) singing away with such gusto and passion? Their beautiful voices lifting our spirits in song. And, so many beautiful songs were introduced to me – Violet in the Snow became one of my favourite Christmas songs and Let Peace Begin with Me before kneeling down for our final moments of prayer before receiving the Eucharist was so deeply heartfelt for me. And, then one by one their children joined in and I am thinking how lucky they are learning all these instruments and following in their parents’ footsteps. How great the whole family was involved! Theresa and Don’s impact on me was profound. To this day, I always love singing with my classes and introducing these gorgeous and prayerful songs to my students. But, more importantly, (if something can be more important than song), was her warm and loving kindness to me when I had the rare occasion to speak with her after mass or at a school or social gathering. And, I recently found out that she was a favourite teacher to both my husband Tom and my best friend, which speaks volumes. Her funeral mass was amazingly beautiful -when her sons led the coffin with their guitars – singing the entrance song and then later the whole family sang up at the front, it demonstrated their amazing fortitude, love and appreciation for their dear sweet mother. For the entrance song, I swear every single person in attendance at the packed St. James Church sang “Here I am Lord” and I thought the roof was going to lift off. It was a breathtakingly magical moment (and one which I will always cherish) and a true testimony to her enormous beautiful presence we were privileged to share with on this earth.
I know the days ahead will not be easy but may her impact that she had on so many of us (based on the many beautiful tributes on this site) bring your family much comfort and peace. May God continue to bless your family with song. Love and blessings. Jodie Guillemette & Tom Eagan and family
Joanne & Walter Randon says
To Rait family Our deepest sympathy to all of the Rait family
Kevin Boston says
Mrs. Rait was an amazing teacher and always had a wonderful smile. My thoughts are with her family.
Adrian Grbic says
Jacquelyn and Families,
Our condolences and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Mrs. Rait was a true cornerstone at St James School and Parish and I am sure I can speak for many that she left a legacy and many great memories. God Bless and may she rest in peace.
Joanne Basso says
Don, I just heard about Theresa’s passing. My heart and prayers goes out to all of you during this very difficult loss.
Sian, Niall Saoirse, Deirdre Carson says
Dear Don and Family,
We just learned recently that Theresa had passed away. We were all so very sad to hear this news and she was remembered very fondly as we gathered together at Thanksgiving.. Her sense of fun and light-heartedness was always to the fore, and her ability to find the positive , was indeed an inspiration for me personally.
Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of a truly wonderful and amazing person. She holds a special place in the hearts of the Carson family,
Elaine and Pius Pittman & Family says
So sorry to hear of Theresa’s passing. Our deepest sympathy to the Rait and Carney families.
Bill Thomson says
Don Rait and Family,
May I offer my deepest condolences to you, Don, and your family on the recent passing of Theresa. While I did not teach with Theresa, I knew her through my association with you and several of your children at FXO and through Sunday masses at St James church.
Theresa was always kind and courteous with me and a very gracious host to all the FXO staff at the various get-togethers at your home. She will be missed, I am sure, by all those who knew her.
Don, I wish you and your family the best as you all try to move into the future without that special person beside you. May you cherish her beautiful memory until you meet again.
Marc de la Bastide says
Sincere condolences to the Rait and Carney families on the passing of Theresa. She was a kind and generous person who used her talents to serve others. I will remember her fondly. RIP.
Ramos Family says
Our thoughts & condolences to the Rait & Carney family. Mrs Rait was a blessing to St James & the school. My children loved her & will miss her good spirit. God Bless her soul.
Ramos Family.
Bernard O’Grady says
Colgan has lost a fine musical woman
who’s talent & faith touched many
Our sympathies from NS
Bernard, Joyce & family
Maria Vetro says
My heartfelt condolences to the Rait and Carney families. Theresa is a wonderful example of kindness through action. She will be missed.
Shannon Nicol says
I am so sorry to all of Mrs. Rait’s family and friends.
Mrs. Rait was the most amazing teacher. I will forever be appreciative for the care, compassion, knowledge, encouragement and the high expectations she set for all of her students. She met every child where they were at and brought them forward in so many ways. Thank you for being my confirmation sponsor. I would not have wanted anyone else to stand by my side. You have inspired me as a special education educator and for that I am extremely grateful. You will be missed. xo
Mary Lafazanos says
Don Rait and Family,
So sorry to hear of Teresa’s passing. Your music brought
immense joy to celebrations of Mass at St. James over the
years! Thanking you for the music in the many wonderful musicals produced by St. James School in which our young adults participated, seems so inadequate – we are forever grateful!
Mary, Elias, Stephanie, James, Christine and Brian Lafazanos
Lesia and Slawomir Salamaszek with family says
Glory to Jesus Christ!
Mr Rait and Rait and Carney family
Dear Louise and Neville and all family
Thinking of you and praying for you and your family,
our hearts go out to you at this difficult time.
May Our Lord receive departed Teresa’s soul
in His Sacred Heart, where is no pain, no sorrow,
but Peace, happiness and Everlasting Life.
Wishing you peace, comfort, courage, and lots of love at this time of sorrow.
we pray for you and your family.
We extend our sincere condolences to all family.
Jennifer Diaz O’Leary and Family says
Your legacy lies in the hearts of countless students who have been shaped and molded by your teachings. Your patience and kindness made you stand out as a role model for so many.
Heaven has gained another beautiful angel. Rest in peace, and may your soul find eternal peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
B. MacDonald says
To the Rait Family
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of Theresa. She was such a sweet lady, caring mother, and teacher. She always had a giant smile and always pleasant to everyone.
Thérèse Picco, Enrico Basco says
It is with our deepest heart felt condolences to Don and the entire Rait and Carney family on the passing of your beautiful treasure Theresa. Her kindness, gentle humility and loving way will be greatly missed by all of us who had the opportunity to be a witness to her faith and works.
Therese Picco, Enrico Basco and family
James Lafazanos says
My condolences to the family.
Rob and Eileen Walker says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad time, Theresa was a great inspiration to everyone
Rob and Eileen Walker
Elizabeth Kirley and Jerry Switzer says
Thirty years ago Theresa and Don welcomed us and our young boys to this area with open hearts and, of course, with music. Theresa was widely known for her musical school concerts and her ability to bring out the best musical talent of young students. She was wonderfully talented in the classroom as well. Theresa has left us far too soon. Our deepest condolences to Don and the Rait amd Carney families.
Melanie Harold (Groh) says
My sincerest condolences to the entire family. Mrs Rait has been in my thoughts over the years, she made quite the impression on me and numerous others thru her life. I don’t believe I ever told her but I chose the name Theresa as my confirmation name in honour of her and my grandmother, as both were incredible women, and I can only hope to live up to the name.
She will live on in all our hearts.
Stacy F says
So very sad to hear about the passing of Mrs. Rait. She was my wonderful, patient and kind 6th grade teacher. She will be dearly missed.
Colleen&Dwight Baycroft says
Our condolences to you, Don, and to your family and to the Carney family members. Theresa touched so many people in the Colgan community with her smile, kind words and beautiful voice. She was a special part of so many celebrations with family and with the whole parish community. She will be truly missed. You and your family will be in our prayers. God bless.
Colleen&Dwight Baycroft
Margo & John Cooney says
Our sincere sympathies to Don and the family on the sad passing of Teresa, a loving wife and mother and pillar of the St. James and broader community. Teresa and Don brought such beauty when they sang at our wedding and we have fond memories of the Rait family singing at the children’s Christmas mass each year. Their beautiful voices and musical accompaniment added tremendously to the spirit of the season. No doubt Teresa will be singing in Heaven’s choir bringing her own special voice to the heavens. She will be sadly missed by all who had the privilege to know her. Rest in Peace Teresa.
Ann Duwyn says
I wish to send my heartfelt condolences to the Rait and Carney families for their loss. Although I only met Theresa and Don once, I have heard so many wonderful things about Theresa from my daughter Jeannine Bouw. Sending positive vibes your way!
McGovern Family says
Extending our deepest condolences
To the Rait and Carney Families
My she rest in peace ❤️
Theresa Wainwright says
So sorry to hear that Theresa lost her battle. I know all of you will miss her beautiful positive attitude towards life and any trials thrown her way. I loved her beautiful voice, especially on the day that she and Don sang at our wedding 45 years ago. Find your strength in her memories and in your time with each other. Thinking of all of you, Rick and Theresa Wainwright
Joan & Allan MacDonald says
Dear Don and all of the Rait and Carney family.
I have read all the messages a few times and have very little unique to add, other than “Ditto”. So many beautiful tributes! Theresa was loved by anyone she touched. I’m sorry we weren’t able to attend the funeral today, but you are all in our thoughts and prayers. There is another beautiful voice in God’s angelic choir and a new smiling Guardian Angel for all of you. God Bless you all.
Mary & Gary MacCallum says
Sending our love and deepest condolences to the Rait and Carney families. Theresa was a beautiful, talented, kind and loving person. We have been blessed to have her touch our lives. Mary, Gary, Jackie, Marc, Scott & Tracey
Jennifer Kurmey says
I was so sorry to hear of Theresa’s passing. She had a special way of making me feel like I was the most important person in the room every time she saw me. Her smile was infectious and her voice will be remembered by everyone who knew her. I am so glad that mom and dad had the chance to say goodbye and I wish I could be there to give you all hugs. Heaven certainly has a new angel and I’m sure that she is up there now leading the choir. Sending my love and prayers to the Rait family.
Jessica Di Giovanni says
Liz, Jackie, Chris, Pat and Matt – So very sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. My memories of her are that she was lovely and gentle. I remember hoping she would be my teacher “next year” all through elementary. Wishing you strength and rest in this very difficult time. I’m truly sorry I can’t be there to give you all big hugs.
Danusia Rogacki says
Theresa was such an extraordinary person. She was so kind, gentle and lovely. She was an exceptional teacher, making a lasting impression on her hundreds of students. We will remember her as an example of how to live with joy, kindness and compassion. Our deepest condolences to the Rait and Carney families.
Caroline Bacher says
We were saddened to hear of Theresa’s passing. Theresa and I often had interesting chats while we were outside gardening. We had a lot in common as we were both teachers. I will always remember when the end of August came and we were getting our new classes ready we would talk about what the new year had in store for us. David and I feel very lucky to have known Theresa and her cheerfulness, even through her struggle with lymphoma. She had strength and her faith certainly kept her going even when the odds were against her. I will continue to pray for your family through these difficult times. May God bless you all and keep you. Sincerely, David and Caroline Bacher
Adele & Dave McKendrick says
Our deepest condolences to the Rait and Carney family.
Gerri Fearman says
Please accept my sincere condolences. I had the privilege of working with Theresa on board committees for the intermediate grades. She was inspirational and truly a lovely lady. God bless.
Sheri Sallows (Jackson) says
Mr Rait and the Rait & Carney families,
My sincere condolences to all of you. Mrs Rait was a very special person who will not be forgotten. This quote reminds me of her.
“When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”
Hold your memories close.
Catherine McCullough says
Dear Don and Family,
I have just learned of the untimely loss of Theresa. During the time I worked at Simcoe Muskoka, Teresa was always considered a legend and known for her dedication and passion for teaching. Teaching was truly a vocation she lived every day. Her contributions to education and your community will always be a source of inspiration to others. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Sincerely Catherine McCullough
Al Sequeira (Louis) says
Theresa was such a wonderful lady. She was God’s blessing to all of us. Though her passing leaves us mourning, we believe in a Christian way that she is now sharing that Eternal happiness we can only vaguely dream of and aspire to. May God bless all the family she has left behind.
Joe and Donna Adamick says
Our condolences to the Rait and Carney families.
Barb and David Bricknell and Family says
So sorry to hear of Theresa’s passing. She was a kind and wonderful woman. Please accept our deepest condolences.
Bob & Pat Jackson says
Don & Family & Carney Family
Our sincere condolences for your loss. Cherish your memories.
Rest in peace Theresa.
Julia Obermeyer says
Mrs. Rait was one of my favorite teachers. Growing up at St. James school, I hoped that I would get to have her as my teacher and I finally did in Grade 8. Her vibrant spirit made the start to the school day that much better. She had a way of making her students feel that they could accomplish anything and was ready to go the extra mile to help us. Teaching was truly her calling.
I always looked forward to rehearsals and concerts for choir, Christmas, and the school musicals. They are some of the best and cherished memories for me. If ever you felt like you were going to forget when to come in or forget the words, all you had to do was look at her. When I was in Grade 7, the musical was Cinderella. And I got to be Cinderella! I remember being nervous about not having a microphone. How was everyone going to hear me in that gymnasium?! But she was always so reassuring that I could do it which helped give me the confidence that I could.
I know her faith was important to her and she shared that with her students. I remember every morning she would lead us in a morning prayer and ask if anyone had a special intention. It was a wonderful way to bring her students together in the morning. It showed her love and care for her us. This left a lasting impression on me as I would like to do this in my classroom.
It was also so special to sing with her in choir at Sunday mass. I was always so excited to go and I didn’t want to be late! As I got older, she would ask me to join in singing harmony with her-and what a treat that was! But my favorite mass was Christmas Eve Mass. I loved that we would sing as everyone was coming in. And the version of Silent Night that we would do was so beautiful.
I am so sad that I won’t be singing with her again, especially the harmonies. The angels will now be singing harmony with her. My deepest condolences to Mr. Rait and family.
Mrs. Rait, you will always be missed. I will always hear your voice when I sit in the pew after singing the Psalm and Acclamation saying “that was beautiful Julia.” And although you will be singing harmony with the angels now, you will always be singing harmony in my heart.
Bill and Eilísh Boston says
Sincere condolences to the Rait and Carney families.
Eilísh and Bill Boston says
Sincere condolences to the Fair and Carney families.
David,Dorothy Vienneau & Family says
We wish to offer our deepest sympathy and condolences to the Rait and Carney families Theresa was always a friendly smiling face in our community
David, Dorothy Vienneau & Family ️
Paul Kearney says
I want to wish our condolences to the Rait & Carney family, Teresa was such a beautiful soul and I’m sure any student would say how wonderful things to say about Mrs Rait. I really wish I could be there tonight but I’m not moving around to well tonight.
Paul Kearney & our whole family
Crystal Crosbie says
Some of my happiest school memories are in Mrs. Rait’s classroom, she was a wonderful teacher & a wonderful person. Condolences to the entire family.
Samantha Del Greco - EA says
To the Rait family. Don and Theresa were a huge inspiration to me when I joined the FFX O’Reily family. Watching and listening to them sing and play at all the church services. Especially Christmas Mass!! My heart was complete ❤️ singing and playing was the love and passion of my life. Don and Theresa, as well as their sons sang and played with shivers down my back. The Tottenham community will never be the same
Theresa, may you rest with the angels and sing. My love for music is because of you! ❤️
Sending all my love to the family ❤️❤️
Barb Greenwood says
Dear Don and family
I am so saddened to hear that Theresa is no longer with us!
We all loved her so much at St. James
She was such a superstar, going about her business in a loving and
Happy go lucky way! A big smile on her face, radiating joy and positivity in abundance! A caring and compassionate soul, taking care of anyone needing additional love and support!
Keeping you close in my thoughts, my heart and my prayers as you
Suffer the loss of your loved one!
Mary Anne & Larry Nardecchia says
To Don and Family: It is so difficult to think of the right words to covey our thoughts of Theresa. From first meeting her at the CNE Midway, where so many of the family spent summers working, through the married years with wonderful times that our families shared together and the special joy that Theresa shared with everyone. These will be the memories that will stay with us. Theresa was very special to us and we will remember her laughter and her caring about others. We both send our love and sincerest condolences. And to Theresa – please watch over us.
Shannon Meiche says
Sending love from the Meiche family❤️
Gail Morgan says
I like many others have wonderful memories of Theresa. Her hello with her beautiful smile always making you feel welcomed.
My condolences to the Rait and Carney family.
Marisa Carusone says
I’m so sorry for the passing of this wonderful person, mother and teacher.
I’m sending my deepest condolences to the entire family.
May she rest in peace, Thank you for teaching to all my 3 girls.
Paul Healy says
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of Theresa. She was such a sweet lady and it was a delight to have had the privilege of working with her. She always had a giant smile and always pleasant to everyone.
Due to contracting CoVid a few days ago, I am sorry to say I will not be at any of the services. However, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Paul
Bill, Sandy, Lisa & Michelle says
Don, The Rait & Carney Families
We send our sincerest condolences and prayers. We know that Theresa has left all of you with wonderful memories and will be forever in your hearts. Theresa was a wonderful person whose kindess and loving smile was genuine. We loved her beautiful voice and know that she is now singing with the angels in heaven.
Love from The Clark Family…Bill, Sandy, Lisa & Michelle
Lisa Nardecchia says
Dear Don and family,
We were so incredibly sorry to hear about Theresa’s passing – she was such an amazing person. What I remember most about her is that she effortlessly exuded this feeling of warmth – I always felt welcomed by her. Although, as you know, our meetings were intermittent and years apart, she was always interested in knowing what was going in my life and took the time to genuinely listen. She had this marvelous little twinkle in her eye and is easily one of the kindest and most lovely people I’ve known. The world has truly lost a wonderful person, but her presence will forever be felt by all who were lucky enough to know her. You are all in our thoughts.
Much love and hugs,
Lisa & Sean
Kevin Borczyk says
Passing along my sincere condolences to Don and the entire Rait family. The world has lost a truly amazing person, mother, teacher and member of the community.
Kevin
Mary & Jack McBride says
Don, the Rait & Carney families. We would like to offer our sincere condolences. Theresa & her family have graced us with beautiful music for a long time. We have grateful hearts.
Deb Richard says
So sorry to the Rait family and all who knew her. She always had a smile and a warm welcome.
Michael Yapp says
Mrs. Rait was my favourite teacher. I was blessed to have her for both Grade 6 and 7th. She always made me feel so special and loved. My deepest condolences to the Rait and Carney families. I am travelling abroad otherwise I would have attempted to attend the services.
Grace Ronan says
My condolences to the Rait and Carney families. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Mrs. Rait will forever be a guiding example of who I want to be when I grow up. It was always a good day when Mrs. Rait was our supply teacher! I’d come home from school talking about how I wished my cursive writing could look like hers on the chalkboard and bragging that I’d got to learn the harmonies on the school mass songs, even though those were usually sung by grade 7s and 8s!
She was a great influence in my life. From a young age, she encouraged me to share my singing voice at St. James Church by joining the choir. I cherish those years from elementary to high school when I sat beside her in the pew each Sunday and got to sing with her. She always encouraged me that each year my voice was getting stronger, and she is undoubtedly part of the reason I decided to study music in university.
I fondly remember the times I would be home visiting from university and Mrs. Rait would say, “we have our girl back!” The last time we sang together was Christmas Eve mass the year before last. My mom always says it doesn’t quite feel like Christmas until she hears the harmonies sung by the Rait choir in O Holy Night during communion. I will certainly think of Mrs. Rait every time I sing those harmonies she taught me, for the rest of my life.
Every St. James student is sure to know the song “Children of the Light” – and were likely taught it by Mrs. Rait herself. In the words of that song, Mrs. Rait surely did “touch the heart of everyone.”
Mary Catherine Mike & family says
Theresa will be missed she was a beautiful kind soul who touched many lives in our community ❤️
Our sincerest condolences to The Rait & Carney families
Tracey (Doyle) Hudson says
Rait family,
So sorry to hear of Mrs. Rait passing. She was an amazing lady and a great teacher. She will be missed by many. Thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Theresa and Larry Keogh says
Don, family, relatives and friends
When I think of the very positive influence that Theresa had on such a multitude of people, I most say that Maddie Ronan has said it so well and so appropriate.
As a true disciple of her faith, she had a mission to spread her love, joy and support in her family and friends and beyond that to her parish community. As a true disciple that mission was extended to the local community. No matter where in the community when Theresa showed up you were always greeted with that same exuberant and positive character so typical of Theresa. Yes we will dearly miss her friendship.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time.
With Respect.
Julie Kearney says
To the Rait Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your mother, she was a beautiful lady. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely
Julie Kearney-Greer
Paul Alpajaro says
To the Rait and Carney families, I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences on the loss of a truly wonderful person, teacher, sister, aunt, grandmother and above all wife and mother. Theresa always knew how to bring out the best in a person. Her infectious positive outlook on life was very refreshing in our modern world. Her gifts of kindness and music will truly live on in everyone that had the privilege of knowing her. Heaven has truly gained an absolute angel.
Jennifer Pipe says
My sincere condolences to the Rait and Carney families. Your wife, sister and mother was a shining example for us all. I feel blessed to have known her. Big hugs and prayers for you all.
Andrea Zanelli says
To all of the Rait family,
Sending love and prayers to all of you during this difficult time. I am so sorry to hear about Mrs. Rait. My thoughts are with all of you. Her beautiful voice will be missed by so many.
Warm regards,
Andrea Zanelli
P & R Obermeyer says
Our sincere condolences to the family. Theresa was a great teacher/lady and will always be remembered for her vibrant and happy smile. She really brought music to life for all the children at St. James.
She will be missed and always remembered.
the Obermeyer family
Peggy Feehely says
When I think of Theresa’s passing I’m overcome by grief and can’t stop the flow of tears as memories come flooding in. However, if I think about what my life would have been like without Theresa I am filled with gratitude . How appropriate she died right before Thanksgiving – almost like she was giving us a nudge forward, reminding us that she lived a life rich in love and we should all be remembering her in the spirit of Thanksgiving. I’m not there yet, Theresa, but I’m trying.
Theresa was the single, most influential person I worked with during my 30 plus years of teaching at St. James. We had so many adventures and misadventures as we worked on the school plays, chaired Science Fairs, organized the choirs for monthly masses and Christmas concerts and so much more,
From the moment I met her I knew there was something very special about Theresa. She radiated love, compassion, confidence and a gentle strength that was rooted in her faith in God. I will always hold her close to my heart.
Linda Frost says
Don and family,
I was sad to hear of Theresa’s passing. I remember her as being a very kind and caring person always wanting the best for everyone. Know that I will remember her in my prayers. Although I am unable to attend, I will be with you in spirit.
Linda Frost
Bernie Eagan says
Theresa’s death has left a great void in our Faith community . She has enriched our Liturgies over a multitude of years with her lovely voice raised in praise . In the presence of the Angels she will now do the same . She enlightened countless minds in her years of teaching in her wonderful , affirming and encouraging way . Certainly positivity and joy were always the traits that shone out most when one met her . I thank you Theresa for all the gifts you so willingly shared with the St. James community and beyond . May you now rest in the arms of Jesus .
Natasia Rogacki says
My sincere condolences to the Rait and Carney families – Theresa had such a lovely presence and was always friendly and kind. I’m grateful that I got to see her over so much of my life, and I will miss catching up with her and enjoying her company.
Martina Keogh says
Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved wife, sister, grandmother. Theresa was an incredible teacher who saw the good in all her students and used her musical talent to lead many choirs and musical productions!
Heaven has gained a beautiful, talented angel!
RIP Theresa
Candice B says
Sending my deepest condolences to the Rait family and the many people she touched in her lifetime.
I was a student of Mrs. Rait and she had such a gift of making her students feel valued and capable, and we all wanted to be the best version of ourselves for her. Her positive impact still remains within our group of friends/classmates today, and almost three decades later, we still talk about our beloved Mrs. Rait. She was a gift to so many and will be truly missed.
Wendy and Martin Ranby says
We are so very sorry to hear of the loss of Theresa. Sincere condolences to Don and all Theresa’s family. She always had such a ready smile and laugh. We are sending prayers during this very difficult and sad time,
Wendy and Martin Ranby
Bob and Evy Vienneau says
Our condolences go out to Don and all the family.
RuthAnn Turnbull says
My deepest condolences to Don and the Rait and Carney families. My first memory of Thersa was as a new student to St. James starting Grade3 mid year riding the school bus. Memories grew as I joined the staff at St James. You have touched so many lives. Rest in peace.
Peter Andrews says
Our deepest condolences to Don and the entire Rait family. Theresa was a mentor to me, and many of the teachers at St. James. I was inspired by her positivity and constant enthusiasm. Theresa was an exceptionally talented educator whose humble nature and goodness touched many. Our famly was blessed to have her as a teacher for our children; and we also enjoyed her family’s musical ministry at St. James Parish. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Peter and Tracy Andrews
Michelle & family says
I did not have the honour of knowing Theresa, but in meeting Chris & Matthew, it is clear that they have embraced kindness, gratitude, positivity, and a love for music that they have shared with those around them. Sending love and prayers to you and your families.
Klaus and Beatriz Baumfeld says
To Don and all the Family:
On behalf of the whole Baumfeld Family I would like to convey our deepest and sincere condolences. Theresa was an important figure in our family considering she taught all our sons and contributed to their faith and meaningful upbringing. The music ministry that Theresa and Don provided at St. James Church made the Mass seem so much more spiritual and I can never thank them enough for that. I had the privilege to spend a few minutes for the last three weeks, each week with Theresa and Don at Matthews house and I am grateful for that! Rest in peace dear Theresa, heaven has gained another beautiful Angel!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, sincerely,
The Baumfeld Family.
Colleen Hogan says
Mrs. Rait was such a wonderful person. I can still hear her speedy “click-clacking” of her high heels as she hurried down the hallways of St. James school. I will always think of her when I sing (or teach) the rendition of Silent Night that she taught me so many years ago. She was definitely my inspiration to take music after elementary school, and I’ve always wanted to impact another student in the art the way she did me. Such an enormous loss for our tight knit community. She’s leading a choir of angels in Heaven now!
Joan Kwiatkowski says
After reading the above notes of Condolences, there isn’t much more one can say about such a beautiful woman as Theresa. I have never met anyone more wonderful, loving, joyful and full of life as she was and I know I will never meet anyone like her again. When God made Theresa, he threw away the mold because He knew there could only be one Theresa Rait (Carney). My thoughts and prayers are now with Don and their wonderful children, Theresa’s beautiful family and all her relatives. I pray that our Heavenly Father will be with Don and the children, giving them the strength to carry on without the presence of Theresa, I know that they all have Theresa’s spirit, her love of life and joy. God Bless You Theresa, you will be surely missed by everyone in our three Parishes and all that knew you. Until we meet again, lots of love from myself, Terry and Jeff, Tim, Krista and Carson.
Love you & miss you so much already.
Joan
Terry A. Behan says
Beautiful mom ♥️
Lorrie Temple says
Blessings and prayers to your family Chris. I love how you mom saw positivity and gratitude as key characteristics and ways to live. You model those as well. I pray that your mom may rest in peace, in God’s loving arms knowing she lived her best life and loved by so many. ❤️
Bob and Sue Beck says
To Don and family
We offer our sincere condolences .
The Beck family.
The entire Post family says
Theresa was, indeed, a unique member of our extended family. We have lost a physical being but there is a new Star in Heaven. Theresa led by example and set a high bar that we valiantly try to follow. Rest In Peace, Theresa, knowing your memories with us all will continue. Our arms surround the entire Rait family with love and condolence. Until we meet again.
marc ronan says
Deepest condolences to the Rait and Carney family. Theresa was a strong and well liked leader in our St. James community. The Ronan’s
john says
My condolences to the Rait family,
Maddie Ronan says
Mrs. Rait was a pillar of the community – an untouchable force of joy, light and love. Her presence and impact was far reaching, and she left each student whose life she touched, feeling seen and worthy. I will always fondly remember Mrs. Rait for the music she brought into all of our lives; from the cherished St. James choir practices before a school mass, to the 12:00 pm weekly masses – the Raits’ music was the driving reason my childhood self could be convinced to go to Church! It is beautiful to think of her in Heaven, sharing that same triumphant spirit and music with all her loved ones. How lucky I feel to have had a part of Mrs. Rait in my life, always a smile, always a hug, and always a story of teaching my Dad (Kevin) in Gr. 3 and Gr. 4! Sending all of my love and condolences to her family, and keeping you all close in my prayers.
Cathy and Greg McKenna says
We have all been very lucky to share our lives with Teresa. We have known her for many years, as a singing partner, a friend, the teacher of our children and a great example of how to live life, how to treat others and be a Christian example to follow. Truly a great lady!
Giselle Vandervoort says
I will always remember Theresa as a kind, loving and talented woman. I loved singing next to her at St. James church. She encouraged me not to be self-conscious and just let it go! She and Don joyfully hosted several gatherings for rowdy school staff at their home. Great memories!
All of our love to this wonderful family.
Charlotte Traverse says
My deepest sympathies to the entire Rait and Carney families. Theresa was a guiding light to so many people. Her gentle interactions with students was something to emulate. Her leadership to her colleagues immeasurable. Her faith was radiant. Her love for her family so deep you wanted to be part of those family gatherings. She was an absolute joy to be around and we shared many laughs. She will live on in her family and in those whose lives she’s touched. Heaven gained a true angel.
Amy Loncarich says
To the Rait family,
My deepest, most heartfelt condolences are with you on the loss of your beloved, Theresa. Surely she touched the lives of countless students and their families, as well as parishioners with her gifts of music and kindness.
Wishing you loving memories to forever hold in your heart and know that heaven has gained another angel. ✝️