Teresa Ellis Blackwell

Teresa Ellis Blackwell, a beloved mother, daughter, sister, and aunt passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025 in Lawrenceville, Georgia.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday September 30 at A. S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home in Decatur, GA with the Rev. Dr. Gary Elg officiating. The family will receive guests from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home. A gathering with friends and family will follow.

Terry was born on September 1, 1955 in Oakland, California. Terry was well liked by those who knew her, and she made strong bonds and touched many throughout her life. She was beautiful, honest, intelligent, and fun loving. She cherished her family and was happiest when surrounded by loved ones. Her sharp wit and love of laughter made her stand out in social gatherings and was greatly enjoyed in times of celebration. She always held a deep connection to Brockport, NY where she was raised in a modest 3-bedroom, 1 bathroom home with 5 siblings. The simplicity, sense of community, and appreciation of rural beauty were always in her heart after moving south to start her own family. She loved giving presents, especially during Christmas, with the tree overflowing with gifts every year. Despite only earning a degree from the secretarial school, Terry grew her career into managing the Atlanta office for Marvin Poer & Co. She was an integral member of the organization and gained the trust to manage their largest client. These hard-earned successes are particularly impressive considering the significant complexity of tax consulting and working during an era of male dominated corporate culture. She was known to have impeccable taste in clothing and decor and delighted in finding a great deal when shopping.

Terry's passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of friends and family, but the joyous moments, companionship, and laughter will always be a part of us.

Terry is survived by her loving children, Jimmy Cretney, Melissa McConnell, and Tommy Blackwell. Her memory will forever be honored by her treasured siblings, Patricia Ellis, Jo Ann Bloomberg, Mark Ellis, Don Ellis, and Pete Ellis. She also leaves behind her adored granddaughters Ashlyn and Lyla McConnell and grandson Thomas Blackwell IV.

She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Tom Blackwell and her dear parents Frank and Thelma Ellis.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to The Lupus Foundation of America: https://www.lupus.org/give/ways-to-give