Visitation
Obituary of Theresa Rose Marie Giddings
It is with sadness that the family of Theresa Rose Marie Giddings, age 88, announce her peaceful passing at Bobby’s Hospice on December 19, 2023, with loving family at her side. Born in Saint John, NB, on October 12, 1935, she was a daughter of the late George and Ellen (nee King) Amirault.
Having been musically inclined at age 6, Theresa took piano lessons in the same building where Bobby's Hospice is now located.
Theresa and her sister, Joan, were well known in the dance community of Saint John as "the dancing sisters".
After raising her three young children, she opened her dance studio in 1968 in the basement of her own home. The Theresa Giddings School of Dance was born. From her own home, her teachings were expanded to St. Marks United Church, Forest Hills, Quispamsis and Grand Bay.
She choreographed the dance routines for High School musicals as well as designed and handmade all costumes for every production her school put on.
Theresa and her sister Joan made several trips to New York City with her students by bus to participate in week long dance workshops and attend Broadway shows.
Theresa was a long standing member of the Professional Dancers Association Inc. and her Joan were the sole founders of Dance New Brunswick bringing professional competitions and exams to aspiring young dancers and instructors.
She loved to sing and sang in the choir of St. Mark's United Church for several years before joining the Saint John Sea Belles A Cappella Choir for 30 years and travelling with them to several competitions near and far.
She was the Treasurer for the Tenants Association for her building at 33 Smyth Street for many years.
A life well lived, Theresa educated countless young people and served her community proudly.
She is survived by her three children Larry (Monica), Gwen (Kenny Russell) and Wanda, eight grandchildren, and twelve great grandchildren. Theresa was predeceased by her sister, best friend, Joan Amirault and Grant Giddings.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Castle “Fallsview” Funeral Home (506) 634-1701 309 Lancaster Ave., Saint John NB. Visitation for Theresa will be held on Friday, December 29th,2023 from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Donations in Theresa’s memory can be made to Bobby’s Hospice or a charity of choice. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Bobby’s Hospice for their exceptional care of their mother/grandmother. Theresa was sharp until the end and felt blessed having lived a full life.
To make online condolences please visit www.castlefh.ca
