Theresa “Terri” Lane Aranda, born November 11, 1949 in Tucson, passed away on May 21, 2026 following a long-term illness. Known to family and friends as Terri, she lived a life marked by steady work in the medical service industry and by long-standing family ties across Arizona and California. Her death was announced by the family, who have arranged services at St. Francis de Sales Parish in Tucson.
Theresa Lane Aranda — portrait published with her obituary, showing an older woman wearing glasses and a colorful scarf.
Terri spent her childhood years in El Monte, California, until the family relocated to Nogales, Arizona, in 1966. She completed her secondary education at Nogales High School, graduating in 1967, and later pursued a career in the medical service industry. Those who knew her from the workplace remember a long-term commitment to that field; the family notes her professional life as a central part of her adult years.
In her personal life, Terri married Steve Serna in 1975. The couple had one child, a son, Stephen E. Serna. That marriage ended in 1980. Two decades later, in 1996, she married Robert (Bob) Aranda of Tucson. The couple relocated to Chandler, Arizona, where they lived for a number of years and developed lasting friendships within the community. In 2013, Terri and Bob returned to Tucson to be nearer to family.
Alternate portrait published with the obituary, showing the subject smiling outdoors and wearing glasses.
Terri was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Bridget Molina, and by siblings Anthony Molina and Henry Molina. Two sisters, Mary Helen Watson and Mary Alice Klauser, are also listed among those who died before her; the obituary notes that Mary Helen Watson’s husband Lyle is deceased as well. The family’s announcement lists an extended circle of relatives who survive her, including her husband Bob; her son Stephen E. Serna and his partner Guillaume Terrisse; an older sister, Lydia de la Ossa, and Lydia’s spouse Juan; a sister-in-law, Grace Molina; a devoted niece, Kathi Pena; and a close cousin, Susee McClure and her partner Terry. The notice also cites numerous nieces, nephews and cousins among her survivors.
Funeral rites will be conducted at St. Francis de Sales Parish, 1375 S. Camino Seco in Tucson. A rosary is scheduled for Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., followed by a funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. A reception in the church hall will follow the Mass. The family has asked that, in lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Terri’s memory consider making a donation to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, conference of St. Francis de Sales Church, at the parish address.
The obituary notice was published in the Arizona Daily Star from May 27 through May 31, 2026, and loved ones have been invited to sign the guest book and share memories. The family has provided information for those who wish to send condolences, leave photos or make memorial donations, and they are accepting messages and remembrances through the funeral home and church channels.
Those planning to attend the services are asked to note the dates and times provided by the family. The arrangements reflect Terri Aranda’s long-standing connections to Tucson and to the St. Francis de Sales parish community; family members will gather there on June 11 to celebrate her life and to receive friends and relatives at the reception following the Mass.