Theresa Ann Cleland

Theresa Ann Cleland, a beloved member of the community, passed away following a short illness on April 11, 2025, at the age of 80. She was best known for owning and operating Cleland’s Gun Shop in Swanton, Ohio, alongside her late husband, Gary Cleland, for fifty years.

Theresa was kind, patient, strong, caring, smart, wise and strong—and those who knew her understand that the additional "strong" is for emphasis, as she would not have tolerated a grammatical error otherwise.

She leaves behind a tremendous legacy as a teacher, mentor, and leader. After beginning her career with a short teaching tenure at Anthony Wayne High School, she spent fifty years mentoring employees, customers, and students, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives. In addition to her teaching and renowned shooting expertise, Theresa enjoyed sports, playing guitar, wood carving, traveling, and spending time with her beloved dogs.

She is survived by her children, Chad David Cleland (Michelle Annis Cleland), Matthew John Cleland (Michelle Lynn Cleland), and Angela Sue Cleland (Jeffrey Lee McFarland); her grandchildren, Benjamin Lee Cleland (Cayleigh Cleland), Katlyn May Cleland, and Domonic Allen Cleland; her great-grandchildren, Parker David Cleland and Colsen Cecil Cleland; and her brothers Dan (Carmen) Worline, Luke (Diana) Worline, and Martin (Lorri) Worline and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Gary Lee Cleland; her son, Eric Kent Cleland; her parents, Arlo and Mary Ellen (Keogh) Worline; and her brother, Tim (Pat) Worline.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at the Ray Neville Chapel at Sunrise Cremations and Funerals in Holland, Ohio (7438 Airport Hwy.) , on May 9, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a short service at 6:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The St Labre Indian School, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, or Wounded Warriors.