Teresa Walls

With deep love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of Teresa J. Walls on July 29, 2026 at the age of 74. Teresa, lovingly known as Terri, was born in Dayton, Ohio on November 22, 1951 and grew up as the eldest of 3 children. She was raised knowing that a life well lived was measured not by personal achievements alone, but by the love shared, the kindness extended and the difference made in the lives of others.

FAMILY

Terri met her husband David at a mutual friend’s wedding and they were married shortly after in 1982. The two quickly realized they had found something special and began a lifelong partnership built on love, faith, laughter and unwavering devotion to one another.

In the years that followed, Terri and David enjoyed traveling the world together, creating lasting memories through their many adventures. Their greatest joy, however, was building a family. They welcomed their oldest daughter, Brittany and a few years later were blessed with twin girls, Jessica and Jasmine, completing the family that became the center of Terri’s life.

Twelve years ago, Terri was overjoyed to welcome her first grandchild Peyton, beginning a new chapter of love and devotion as a grandmother. Seven years later, she was blessed with her second grandchild Aria. Her two grandchildren quickly became the light of her life and she treasured every moment spent with them. She delighted in watching them grow, sharing in their milestones and surrounding them with the same unconditional love, wisdom, and encouragement that defined her life.

EDUCATION AND CAREER

Terri completed her undergraduate degree in Education, a testament to her lifelong commitment to learning and serving others. While her career took a different path, her passion for helping people ultimately led her to return to school later in life.

Terri dedicated over 25 years of her professional life to being a flight attendant, where she combined grace, compassion and professionalism while caring for travelers from all walks of life. Her career allowed her to explore the world, embrace diverse cultures and create lasting connections with colleagues and passengers alike. Beyond her love of travel, Terri treasured time spent with her family and friends. She especially enjoyed taking trips with those she loved, creating cherished memories through shared adventures.

After establishing a successful career, Terri embraced a new chapter by pursuing a lifelong dream of furthering her education and completed her Master’s Degree in Social Work. She dedicated years of service to help countless students and families navigate the financial aid process with patience, compassion and expertise. Many affectionately referred to Terri as a “second mother,” a testament to the nurturing spirit she brought to her work. Believing that education can transform lives, she took great pride in helping students overcome financial barriers to achieve their academic goals.

LEGACY

Terri is survived by her husband of 44 years, David Wall; her three daughters, Brittany Walls, Jasmine Steele (Tracy Steele, Jr.) and Jessica Gomez (James Gomez); her siblings, Toni Stroud and Norman Stroud III.

She was preceded in death by her parents Norman Stroud Jr. and Barbara Stroud.

Terri’s legacy of steadfast faith, unconditional love and selfless service will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her and her life stands as a testament to God’s grace and enduring love.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Walls Scholarship Fund, which supports an SIU student attending Hopewell Church. Checks may be made payable to Hopewell MB Church with "Walls Scholarship" noted in the memo line.

Ministry of Comfort was lovingly entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.