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Remembering An Icon

We lost a warm and caring woman who continued to serve her community and profession up until the end of her dying days. Theresa Fambro perfected her craft and loved her job/hobby working for the Chicago Defender.

courtesy of TBT eNews

This amazingly talented lady was always the best dressed at any gala or party. Her style should be duplicated by some of these young girls today. They could've learned a lot from Teesee on how to control a room and make everyone feel comfortable.

She was so pleasant to me. I remember when I started TBTNews, and up until recently, she would see me out and offer to help. Teesee would whisper in my ear when I greeted and hugged her, which also showed her class, and say: "Do you need me to edit?" I would always laugh and she would say, "I'm serious!" Here are some edited words from other people who loved and respected Teesee Hooks:

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our own Grand Dame, Ms. Theresa "Teesee" Fambro Hooks. Teesee passed away a few hours ago in the comfort of her home. She was 80 Years old. We will miss her greatly and are saddened by our loss. We will post arrangements for her memorial when they become available. Thank you Teesee for sharing your gifts with the world. We are forever grateful! - Chicago Defender

We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Theresa Teesee Fambro Hooks. She was a longtime, award-winning columnist. C-Links Executive Director Brenda Butler said: "Teesee’s beat was covering Chicago's black social set. Few could keep up with her. She was everywhere, at events large and small, camera in hand and notepad ready. Effervescent and a class act." - Columbia Links

Theresa Teesee Fambro Hooks was a gifted journalist who was kind, funny and fabulous. She had a wonderful sense of style. TeeSee supported so many of us and when you were in her column you were thrilled and proud. Your beautiful spirit will be missed. Rest in Peace. - Robin Beaman

Sunday evening I lost my very good friend Theresa Teesee Fambro Hooks. She was 46 yrs my senior but definitely 80 yrs young. Our friendship was blind age. She has my South Shore neighbor, my carpool buddy while working at the Chicago Defender. My reason for staying super late at any gala because anyone who knew her knows she could shut a party down (LOL) and I was often her ride home. Even after I moved from Chicago Teesee and I would speak often. Heck, she surprised me and came to my bridal shower bearing gifts and knowledge. I'm gonna miss you Teesee! May you rest in eternal peace. - Jasmine Allgood-Ward

I met Teesee when I was a teenager and she joined the Chicago Defender as the VP of the Chicago Defender Charities. Teesee was among a small group of media divas who serve as role models for every woman who professes to be a public relations/journalism professional. Teesee, thank you for the example you set for me early in my career. Thank you for lessons in strength and dignity and perseverance. I am honored to have known you Teesee. Rest peacefully dear one. You earned it. - Joslyn DiPasalegne

We lost an ICON of Chicago Culture. Theresa Fambro Hooks. "Teesee" was an amazing talent for the Chicago Defender for over 50 years! Saying that she will be missed is truly an understatement. God Bless you Teesee and I Thank God for your contributions to Chicago. - Hiram Eric Jackson

I am saddened by the passing of our sister Theresa Teesee Fambro Hooks, but my soul is rejoicing that she is in our Father's house. I praise God for her life and the millions of lives she touched. RIH, Teesee for God is saying "Well done my good and faithful servant." - Jacquie Austin

We lost a great friend of ?at Spelhouse?. Her mother was one of the founders of ?Spelmans? Chicago alumnae chapter. She ALWAYS made sure all ?Morehouse? and or ?Spelman? events were promoted in the Chicago Defender. After the passing of her neighbors Bill '42 and Dorothy '43 Cross who cofounded the Beach party with her mother, Ms. Hooks hosted our beach party at 75th and South Shore Drive. She was a wonderful lady and will be missed. RIH Theresa Fambro Hooks aka "Teesee"! - Morehouse Chicago Alumni

Theresa Teesee Fambro Hooks was such a wonderful lady! May she rest in peace. - LeeAnn Trotter

This article was reposted from TBTNEWS HEADLINE, Contributing Correspondent: CDW

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