Teresa Stokes

Teresa Elaine Hall Stokes, affectionately known as Teresa Stokes to her friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, at Sanctuary Hospice in Tupelo, Mississippi. Born on October 5, 1954, in Memphis, Tennessee, Teresa's warmth and generosity of spirit were evident from her earliest days.
The daughter of Marlin Lamar Hall and Marjorie Elizabeth Dunlap Hall, who both preceded her in death, Teresa grew up surrounded by a loving family. Her life was further enriched by her siblings, Gwynn Barkley (Wayne), Jerry Hall (Mittianne), and the late Lynn Andrews (Wade), Peggy Bramlett (Kenneth) and John Hall. Teresa's legacy continues through her three devoted children, Anna Claire Stokes Waldrop (Jimbo), Lyndi Elaine Stokes Davis (Heath), and James Cullen Stokes (Shannon), and her cherished grandchildren, Jemma, Evelyn, Veda, Evie, Lawson, and Lucie, who were the lights of her life. She was also preceded in death by her husband, James Keith Stokes in 2005.
Teresa was a woman of deep Christian faith, which guided her through all seasons of life. She spent her professional years as a dedicated bookkeeper at Stokes Supermarket before transitioning to providing loving child care in her home, where she touched the lives of many families with her nurturing heart.
Her interests were many, but nothing brought Teresa more joy than her grandchildren. She referred to them as her "five little baby dolls" and her "one little baby boy doll." The love she held for them was boundless, and she was a constant source of support, affection, and guidance. Teresa's love for sewing was a thread that connected her to many, but it was her role as the beloved 'Mama T' that truly defined her.
Throughout her battle with cancer, Teresa remained the epitome of selflessness. Even in her final days, she was more concerned with the well-being of others than her own, often inquiring about the lives of her nurses and ensuring that everyone around her was cared for. Her strength and resilience were as unwavering as her concern for others. She loved being referred to as "the cool Aunt" to her nieces and nephews, as two of her precious nieces took care of her while she was in hospice. She adored being an Aunt to them.
In the hearts of her friends, Teresa was unanimously revered as their best friend-a testament to the depth of her kindness and the breadth of her impact. Her ability to listen, empathize, and offer wisdom made her an irreplaceable confidant and source of comfort.
Teresa Stokes was a beacon of love and selflessness. She approached life with open arms, a gentle smile, and an enduring kindness that touched all who knew her. Her memory will be cherished, her lessons carried forward, and her spirit felt forever in the lives of her family and friends. As we say see you later to Teresa, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by unwavering love and an extraordinary capacity to give of oneself. Her legacy is one of love, kindness, and selflessness, and it will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.
Her family will have a private memorial service.
United Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with these services.