Theresa Devlin

Aug 18, 1945 -

Feb 4, 2020

Theresa Nellie Demientieff Devlin "Tiny" was born on Aug. 18, 1945, in Nenana, Alaska, and was the eighth of ten children of Nick and Nellie Demientieff.

Tiny, as she was known to all, was a light-hearted, mischievous young person who grew into an independent caring woman for whom her Native culture, individual and community well-being was paramount. Various Alaska communities benefited from her outlook, advocacy, knowledge and love for Native life shaping communities in Alaska since its very beginnings as a state. Tiny was a river Native, a Deg Xit'an Athabascan woman who grew up on her parents' barges that ran freight up and down the Yukon and Tanana Rivers. Her appreciation for humor, genuine good story and the details of life and spirituality drove her to write stories documenting her life.

Tiny was dedicated to the love of her life, Jack Devlin, and they married on June 22, 1973. Tiny embraced his kids and always valued family and togetherness and they each and all were her kids too. Together Tiny and Jack raised Justin and Vincent, Scott, Eric and their own and youngest Jacklynn Devlin. Tiny was a role model to them of strength and dignity but always with heart and smiles. She often asked, "Are you happy?" She wanted for her kids and those around her to live a good life and to do the right thing and to do it with a real taste for life. A service will be held on Feb. 14, 2020, at Holy Family Cathedral at 3 p.m. A reception will be held at Moose Lodge, Arctic Boulevard at 5 p.m.

Arrangements are with Janssen Funeral Homes please visit our website www.janssenfuneralhomes.com/obits for the full Obituary of Theresa Devlin.