Teresa Gourd

Teresa Eileen Gourd of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on July 15, 2025, after a brief illness.

She was born on July 9th, 1959 to Charlene Mary (Young) Gourd and Stanley Alvin Gourd. Teresa graduated from Des Moines Technical High School, Gem City College in Quincy, Illinois, and Des Moines Area Community College. Over the course of her career, she held positions at Budget Marketing, Gates McDonald, and most recently at MercyOne, where she served as a financial assistance counselor. In each role, Teresa was known for her compassion and commitment to helping those in need.

That same compassion defined her personal life. Teresa was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Her kindness and quiet strength left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She freely gave her time and love, always ready to listen, lend a hand, or offer a word of comfort. Her presence was a steady and reassuring force in the lives of many.

Talented and generous, Teresa was the person people turned to for handmade wedding veils, First Communion dresses, and family history. She was also known for her famous pumpkin bars, often baked with love for those she cared about.

Teresa is survived by her brothers: Stanley, John, Joseph, and Patrick Gourd, and Kane Nicholas; and by her sisters-in-law: Ruth Ball and Linda Gourd. She also leaves behind the nieces and nephews who brought her great joy and fulfillment in her cherished role as "Aunt Teso": Kristina Gourd, Ashley Meza (Jose), Alyssa Murdock (Alex), Michael Gourd, Dominic Young (Audrey), Jose Meza (Sadie), Ciel Meza, Santiago Meza, Nova Fisher, and Lucy Murdock. Teresa is also survived by her dear lifelong friend, Polly Dunaway, and her family.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Charlene Gourd, and sisters-in-law, Judith Gourd and Ann Gourd.

Teresa's warmth, creativity, and unwavering care will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched.

A memorial service will be held Monday July 28 at 11:00 am with a visitation from 10:00-11:00 at Caldwell Parish Funeral Home in Urbandale, IA. Inurnment will follow in the Glendale Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for a future designation.