Teresa Jean Frakes

In Loving Memory of Teresa Jean Frakes

January 26, 1943 – July 1, 2025

Teresa Jean Frakes, 82, of Maywood Park, Portland, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025. She was born on January 26, 1943, in Lawton, Oklahoma, to Marian Frances Mapes-Frakes and William Paul Frakes.

Teresa spent much of her professional life in the Bay Area, where she worked as a Social Worker for Alameda County and as a Probation Officer for Contra Costa County. She was deeply committed to justice, healing, and public service.

A lover of opera, jazz, theater, and literature, Teresa found joy in both the arts and her garden. Known for her wit, generosity, and firm sense of self, she was also a passionate advocate for health and wellness, living as a devoted vegan and lifelong learner.

Spiritually intuitive and grounded in metaphysical teachings, Teresa was a member of the East Bay Church of Religious Science and surrounded herself with wisdom literature, poetry, and purpose. She also dedicated her time to causes she believed in, including Free Geek and Vote Forward.

She is survived by her son, Christopher Harris; her brother, William “Bill” Frakes; and her granddaughter, Jessica Harris. She will be remembered with enduring love.

A private memorial will be held at a later date.