Teresa Dale Swayne Nolan, 72, went home on September 1, 2026, after a lengthy struggle with heart failure. She battled her illness with a quiet bravery and determination, much as she did in all aspects of her life.

She was born in Tulsa on September 6, 1953, to loving parents Doyt and Pauline Swayne. Teresa was one of four daughters.

Her parents helped to give her and her sisters a childhood filled with creativity, adventure and an enduring faith. She spent her younger years going on walks in the woods of the Ozark mountains with her dad and uncle. She floated in the Buffalo River, and enjoyed taking in God’s beautiful creation all around her.

A valued member of her high school debate team, she also enjoyed a good conversation. While always maintaining a kind and patient demeanor, Teresa never shied away from spirited discussions regarding opinions or beliefs.

Their parents also taught each girl the value of honesty and hard work. Teresa took these values to heart, continuously giving her all to provide for her family.

She spent much of her lifetime furthering her education, beginning with her graduation from McClain High School in 1971. From there, she would go on to obtain her paralegal certification, then her Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice. Always eager to learn more, she would then go on to earn two Masters degrees in Special Education and Business Administration. She did all of this while working full time and raising a family, all on her own dime.

Teresa was one of the kindest yet strongest souls one could ever have the honor to meet. To say she was passionate about caring for children would be an incredible understatement. She lovingly raised her two daughters, and later her grandchildren. While raising her kids, she also led three separate girl scout troops, worked with troubled children, and taught special education. More than anything, though, she cared about supporting her daughters and grandchildren, and was endlessly proud of each one of them.

After retirement, Teresa found joy in reading and coming up with ideas for children’s books. She loved to sing old gospel hymns. She also relished in binge watching many detective and law shows, reliving her days working with the youth in the Criminal Justice system.

Teresa was joyously greeted in Paradise by her parents, Doyt and Pauline, as well as a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, and other loved ones who had gone before her.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her beloved daughters, Kristina and Kelly, her grandchildren, Caed, Mally and Eddric; her sisters, Marchita, Sheryl and Denise (Alan); along with a multitude of relatives, friends, students and other loved ones.

Teresa has left behind a legacy of kindness, strength and determination for all who loved her. Her memory will carry on through us with each kind deed, each spirited discussion, and each good book we read until we meet again.

Teresa’s earthly remains will be laid to rest at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Tulsa at a private family service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you instead make a donation to the charity of your choice, and bring a little more kindness into the world.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences online at www.brownfamilycares.com. Teresa’s family has entrusted her care and service to Brown’s Funeral & Cremation Service, 231 E. Commercial Street, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012, 918-251-5331.