Theresa Ann Novak

Theresa Ann Novak, 64, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026 with family and friends by her side until the very end.

Theresa was born on June 14, 1961 in Eau Claire, WI to Joan Lemanski Novak and Dennis Novak. After relocating with her family to Lynchburg, Theresa attended Holy Cross Catholic School and later graduated from Brookville High School.

One of seven children, Theresa grew up in the lively and close-knit Novak family of Beechwood Hills - a home filled with gatherings, laughter, and endless fun that many friends from her high school years still fondly remember.

Theresa was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Karen Novak; and her brother, Michael Novak.

She is survived by her daughter, Cheyenne Ward; her siblings, Cathleen Motz (Brian), Joe Novak (Barbara), Matt Novak (Holly), and Mary Thompson (Robert); as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Theresa always enjoyed working, no matter where life took her - from Busy Bee Early Learning Center in her younger years, to Intercon and Transworld, and finally the Timberlake Walmart. She brought laughter, kindness, and joy to every workplace and to everyone fortunate enough to know her.

To know Theresa was to love her, and to be loved by her in return. She possessed a rare generosity and warmth that touched countless lives. Whether she was sharing stickers with children in her Walmart checkout line, baking and cooking for friends, family, and even strangers, or creating thoughtful handmade crafts and gifts, Theresa made people feel remembered and cared for. She had an incredible memory for names and birthdays and made it a priority to celebrate others in both big and small ways. Her greatest passions were crafting, creating, and spreading love wherever she could.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St Jude Children’s Hospital, which Theresa donated to regularly, in her honor.