SALLY E. TERRELL

01/28/56 - 05/11/25

TERRELL

Sally Elaine Terrell, 69, of Allen, Texas, left us peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on May 11th, 2025, a Mother's Day that will forever be etched in our hearts. Even though Sally was taken too soon, she lived an extraordinary life surrounded by people who loved and adored her. Sally, affectionately known as “YaYa” by her grandchildren, was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother whose kindness, friendly humor, and unwavering dedication to her family, friends, and neighbors will always be remembered.

Born in Dallas, Texas, on January 28th, 1956, Sally was the cherished daughter of Eugene Todd Griffin and Eva Dean Griffin and sister to Melissa Ann Mayo. She spent her childhood in Garland, Texas, and graduated from South Garland High School in 1973 (one year earlier than her true class of 1974). Sally's journey through life was marked by her deep love for her family and her passion for making a difference.

Sally met the love of her life, Steve Terrell, while she was attending Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches, Texas. Their bond grew into a beautiful partnership that lasted 49 years, filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams. Earning a BA in Government and Politics from The University of Texas at Dallas was more than a major, it was a testament to her deep interest in contributing to build a thriving community.

Her involvement in politics and community service was driven by a genuine desire to serve and uplift the community she and Steve called their home in Allen, Texas. Sally served on numerous community boards, including the Allen ISD Board of Trustees and the Allen Animal Shelter, and was a founder and charter member of several civic organizations, including the Allen Public Safety Fund, Allen Kiwanis, and Christ the Servant Lutheran Church.

Sally's civic leadership and commitment were evident in her roles within the Republican Party of Texas, such as founder and charter member of Allen Area Republican Women's Club, and longtime member of Conner Harrington Republican Women and the Texas Federation of Republican Women. She was recognized by the Texas House of Representatives for her outstanding service and tenure as precinct chair of Precinct 120 in Collin County, a reflection of her tireless efforts to make a positive impact. Additionally, she was awarded the Pacesetter Award by the Allen Chamber of Commerce and The Distinguished Service Award by the City of Allen, recognizing her invaluable contributions to the community through her work, volunteer service, and charitable endeavors.

In addition to her civic contributions, Sally was a business partner at Terrell's Dry Cleaning, a former realtor with Ebby Halliday Realtors, and worked as a Collin County Animal Control Officer.

Above all, Sally's cherished treasure to the world was her undeniable love and loyalty to her family. She was her son's best friend, her husband's soulmate and her daughter's idol. Sally believed family and true friends make life more enjoyable, and that great relationships teach us about ourselves and challenge us to be our best selves. She understood the importance of this in times of joy, comfort in times of sorrow, and strength in times of weakness. Her value she intentionally passed along to her children and grandchildren was that real friendship is a gift that enriches our lives in countless ways.

Sally is survived by her loving husband, Steve Terrell; her children, Stephanie Laine Guth and her husband, David Guth and Aaron Grant Terrell; grandchildren, Griffin Dean Guth and Maisie Laine Guth; her sister, Ann Mayo and her husband, Larry; and her beloved nieces and nephews.

Though Sally's physical presence may no longer grace our lives, her vibrant spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. Her legacy of compassion, generosity, and service to others will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. May her memory be a blessing and inspiration of contributing to a community you are proud to call home.

And for all these beautiful, blessed attributes, we look to celebrate and honor Sally.

The family will receive friends during a visitation on Friday evening, May 23,, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.

A service to celebrate Sally's life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 24, 2025 at Christ The Servant Lutheran Church, 821 S Greenville Ave, Allen, Texas 75002. All are welcome.

Following the service, Sally will be interred at Ridgeview Memorial Park, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Allen Animal Shelter, a charity close to Sally's heart.

To convey condolences or to sign an online registry, please visit TJMfuneral.com