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Jerika Teal Obituary
TEAL, 20
School Volunteer
GAINESVILLE - Ms. Jerika Dawn Teal, age 20, passed away Sept. 17, 2008 as a result of respiratory failure at Shands Hospital.
Jerika was born in Lakeland on Nov. 6, 1987 to David and Tina Teal.
Jerika is survived by her parents David and Tina Teal; brothers, Joshua and Jordon Teal; sisters, Jolene and Jenna Teal; paternal grandmother, Newana Teal; maternal grandparents, Della and Neil Anderson; and many other relatives and friends.
Visitation will be Sat. from 1-2 p.m. at First Assembly of God, 1400 S.R. 60 E., Mulberry. Services will follow at 2 p.m. at the church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jerika Teal
Stacy Finch
September 17, 2009
Its been a long lonely year since you left us dear. I miss you so very very much. Although I cry often and the pain inside from losing you will never go away, I am thankful that you are no longer in pain. Your family are always on my mind. I really wish you were here to enjoy life and share all of these new memories with me...
Your friendship will never be forgotten
I love you my sister.
Hope you are enjoying Heaven right now,
I'm sure its sunny where you are, and today is a good beach day for you.
Love you always and forever
Della Anderson
August 28, 2009
It will soon be a year since Jerika went to be with Jesus and she is missed just like it was yesterday. Being her Nana, I know how I feel, but it has to be so much harder for her MaMa, Daddy, brothers and sisters. She was loved so much by everyone who knew her. Love you forever Nana and Papa
Caleb "Cal" Pierre
November 26, 2008
In the weeks I had the opportunity to take care of Jerika at Shands UF. She was always the most pleasant and positive patient. Always a pleasure to work with. Most memorable is how good of a "big sister" she was to her mother Tina.
She was a wonderfull person to know.
Lee Peterson
October 22, 2008
I can't believe you're gone... it's like yesterday that u were in my classes at Mulberry. I never thought this would've happened. I miss you, evern though we didn't talk much. Thanks for helping me out with my classwork, you helped me get through my last year =) rest in peace girl. P.S-I still have the pic you gave me. Hope ur in a better place now. <3 Lee
Cara Goss
October 11, 2008
I met Jerika 6 years ago when she first came to Shands. I thought that I might be able to offer her encouragement, yet everytime I left her hospital room I realized that I was the one being encouraged. Jerika was beautiful inside and out. I am extremely grateful to have known her and be able to call her my friend. I will never forget Jerika sitting up in her hospital bed putting together puzzles and her beautiful smile. She had a smile that could light up any room. I know that this world is a better place because she was here.
To Tina: Jerika taught us what being a fighter is all about. You were so strong for her in those last days. You were there for her in every way.
To all of Jerika's family and friends: I pray that your memories of Jerika will keep her close to your heart always. May God bless you and bring you peace during this difficult time.
"...those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31
Christina Chaplik
October 7, 2008
Jerika was such a wonderful student who always had a smile and a good attitude. She was also outstanding on the clarinet! I miss all of my Mulberry friends and am so sad to hear of a young life lost. My prayers go to the family.
Amy Southwell, PICU
October 1, 2008
To Jerika's Family,
I have known Jerika for 6 years, every since I started working in the PICU. She always had a bright smile and was always so cheerful. Jerika was a very sweet girl with a wonderful personality. Tina, I am so sorry for the loss of your daughter she truly was a fighter. God has a new angel, someone he just couldn't do without. God bless you and your entire family as you encounter this difficult process. May God be with you and keep you safe in his arms. Use His light to guide you through each day.
Stacy Finch
October 1, 2008
Today is two weeks since you graduated into heaven. I have thought about you everyday. I miss you so much...You would love to see the pretty flowers on display for you out at Willow Oak. I miss you and love you dearly my Jer-i-ma-ka. Josh, Steph and I went to the mall in your honor. We missed you and talked about you bunches. Can't wait to see you again,
Katie K
September 30, 2008
I had the priveledge of caring for Jerika for a couple of days during her last stay in the PICU. She was such a wonderful young lady and no matter what the news or situation, she could manage a smile for me. Above all things, that is what I will remember most. My thoughts and prayers to the family.
Tiffany Baugher
September 29, 2008
Hey Jerkia
I know I havent really spoke to you in years. but I remember when we was in cheerleading when we was 5 for the mulberry bucs. your Family is in my prays. Rip Jerkia
love Always Tiffany Baugher
heather baugher
September 29, 2008
jerika,I know you are missed by so many people and your spirit and charm ,smile , gave everyone that was fighting a illness to be strong and live life to the fulless and nowyouare in god's hand's and your not in pain no more now you are a perfect angel watching over your family and friend's . david and tina
I am so sorry that you lost your little girl so soon but she is in a better place trustmei know because I lost my babygirl to so I feel both of your painbut you had more timewith your lil girl so I knowit is harder on the two of you because she was here for 20 year's and I am keeping you and your family in my though's ...love ya
Charles and Linda Christian
September 26, 2008
Tina,
We still remember that beautiful little girl we visited in Shrands and the inner strength and faith she radiated thru out the unit. We have thought of the both of you often. We remember discussing how her strength kept you going. This was a long struggle of faith and hope. We are so sorry for your loss. Jerika was a lovely young lady.
Cindy Feraci
September 23, 2008
Jerika, I love and miss you!
Love,
Aunt Cindy
Robin Gardner, Ed.D
September 22, 2008
Tina & family,
Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto Eternal Life. And of some have compassion, making a difference. Jude 21:22
“Although my Outward shell decays, I’m inwardly renewed each day because the life and power of Christ indwells this fragile jar of clay.”
If I can be of any help please let me know, my prayers are with each of you.
Katy Sue Johnson
September 22, 2008
Rika Roo,
I miss you.
I love you.
I cant believe your not here, now, by my side.
Swim, shower, dance, run and play....till we meet again. Keep that white horse on reserve for me my love. Your love for life will live through me, i promise you that. Your smile forever remains in my memory.
Ill love you n love you n love you forver........Katy Sue
Amanda Ford
September 22, 2008
Jerika,
it has been quite some time since i have even talked to you. i remember when i first moved to mulberry and i was just meeting new people and you were one of them. i used to talk to you all the time on the computer because you were always in and out of the hospital. Now through out the years with all the pain and suffering you no longer have to deal with that. you were a great friend and you will never be forgotten. my thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Jessica Wooten
September 21, 2008
Jerika,
Wednesday night I recieved a frantic phone call from a friend asking if I had heard the news. When she went on to explain herself, and spoke of your passing...all I could think of was wow!!! I can't believe it.
Later on, and on saturday I couldn't help but remember all the amazing memories I have of times with you.
We first met way back when in the Little Miss Mulberry Pagent. Fond memories overwhelm me of when your sister was in the top 10 (or so) and you with your beautiful curls sitting beside me, picking our noses...praying no one could see us in the dark. :) Memories of you I shall charish forever.
I love you and miss you!!! I will see you again one day in heaven...save me a good seat.
With love,
Jessica "Shorty" Wooten
c/o 2006
chris sullivan
September 21, 2008
jerika,
you were best cousin anybody could ever ask for. when i heard the news of your passing, i couldnt stop crying and thinking that that could never happen to you. i will miss you sooo much and i hope to see you again in a distant life. i love and and promise to watch over us and our family. we love you jerika.
love chris.
Annette Myers (POF)
September 21, 2008
David I am so sorry for the loss of your Babygirl! She is in a better place now and there is no more pain....Let the Lord be your strength and guide you through this hurtful time. God Bless You and Your Family.
Fritz Kalinowski
September 20, 2008
I was lucky enough to know Jerika and Tina during visits to Gainesville over the last 6 years.
I met the Teal's shortly after starting to work for Shands in the Security department and we became quick friends.
I lost count of the late night visits to the jerikas room tina made or the days she never left her bedside then would stumble back to her apartment in a daze.
Tina always kept all of our officers updated on how she was doing and what the latest news was.
I remember one night that jerika was able to stay in the apartment and snuck up behind me and scared the daylights out of me.
That was one of the first times I knew that I liked this kid and that I'd have to watch my back with her around.
Each and every time they came to Shands they made sure to say hi and give me a hard time.
I recently saw jerika on the PICU floor and watched her sleep for a short time as I talked to tina. The staff looked at me oddly due to me still being in uniform and talking to tina. This is far from normal in our hospital.
Just to give jerika a hard time I got a strip of surgical tape and wrote her a note it and stuck it on her tray. The next time I came back to see her I got to spend about an hour or so with her and just talk.
We talked about silly stuff and I told her I was glad to see her but would have rather her healthy.
She said me too and gave me a little grin. As I left I told her that I was proud of her and to keep on fighting the good fight.
A few day's later I got an instant message that the transplant was a go and that as soon as it was all over I'd be told where she was.
When I got the news of her passing it hit me like a ton of bricks and I couldn't believe it. Tears were shed.
Jerika was a special lady and I am honored to have known her even for the short time that I did.
Thank you for the memories and god bless you!
Joan Ayala
September 20, 2008
Dear Tina & Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart is reaching out to you for what you and your family are going through. I am thinking of you and praying for you. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow and the love of family and friends carry you through your time of grief. If there is something I can do, please don't hesitate to call me.
carrie bell
September 20, 2008
I only saw her a few times. I really did not know her, but could feel the warmth of her smile and just how tender and sweet she was just standing in the room. I know she will be so dearly missed.I will pray for you all.
Pam Midgley
September 20, 2008
Peace to you, David, Joshua, Jordan and Jenna.....and to Jerika Dawn who has been blessed with her new wings. This is not easy I've known you all for a short time. David my heart goes out to you and your children in this difficult time. God will mend your sorrow and you will rise up as eagles. My prayers are with you and your family.
Peace+
Pam Midgley (Lakeland)
Stacy Finch
September 20, 2008
My dear Jerika,
I will say good bye to you today..along with many of your friends and family. Noone can count the tears that will be shed. We express grief of our loss of you...but we also celebrate your life. You were my best friend for nine years, I spent more nights at your house than at my own in high school. I remember when we used to give each other permanent marker tattoos on our backs because we were too young to get real ones. And I remember the days of our crazy three amigos trips of trying on silly hats at the mall and eating as much junk food as we could with stephanie. It hasnt hit me just yet that you're gone; i've cried maybe only a hundred tears. i think when i see your brother today..and when we walk up to see you..that it will be real. I'll miss you forever my best friend. i'm sorry you couldn't make it until my wedding...but you will be in my thoughts forever. I love you
**
To the Teal family,
I want to thank you so much for raising such a wonderful daughter. Thank you so much for inviting me into your family. You guys treated me like your own daughter. Many birthdays and partys and family outings with you guys showed me that you are an awesome family. I am so sorry for your loss, and my family sends their deepest sympathies. You will forever be my other family, and you will forever have my love. Thanks so much David,Tina,Jolene,Joshua,Jenna and Jordon. I love you all
Love always
Stacy D. Finch
Uncle Chris & Aunt Debbie Saylor
September 20, 2008
Dear Tina,
We are sorry to hear about Jerika and her going to heaven. I think the Lord needed one more angel in the choir and Jerika was the one. We love you and will continue to pray for you and the family.
Douglas Branch
September 20, 2008
Jerika,
I will always remember the time we met. I remember when you were teaching me how to run the band supply store when I was in the 7th grade. I will forever miss you. Although you are no longer here in body, your spirit is still at large. Heaven now has a beautiful angel up there watching down on us. No more suffering. You are free.
To the Teal family,
Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers through this difficult time. Pray and stay strong. I love all of you!
Donna Sullivan
September 20, 2008
Dear Tina,
I was deeply saddened to hear about the death of Jerika. I know how difficult this must be for you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and your family during this time and always,
heather phillips
September 19, 2008
To the Teal Family,
I was in Elementary School and used to live down the street from her, she was a very loving person. it is so sad thta she had to go this soon, she is in better hands now. god is taking very good care of her with no pain, no tears, and just imagine in heaven its nothing but gold and pearls. i bet she is sitting at the crystal river right now with her feet in the water looking down on all of us. mrs Teal And Mr Teal, You to are so strong and wonderful for raising a very strong lady that now is a angel from the above. I dont know if this will work but just remember The lord picks his flowers from the garden, and jerika was that flower. shining right on him.. My Love is Sending your way. may she rest in peace shes in good hands.
Heather phillips
Lori Sapp
September 19, 2008
Dear Tina and Family,
I am so sorry! You are in my prayers. I will pray that you will have the strength to go on. I will pray that you will trust the Lord (we do not understand His will at times). I will pray for you. Please let me know if you need specific prayer! The only bad part about moving away from my friends is that I can't be physically present to support my them in times like this. I am there in mind! I am thinking about you and adding you to prayer lists.
Lori
Richard Booth
September 19, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss. I know the heartbreak of losing a child. I have lost two. your family is in my prayers.
Tina Yarbrough
September 19, 2008
My heart and prayers go to the Teal family.
Those we love don't go away. They walk beside us everyday.
Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord
Psalm 31:24
Tony Anderson
September 19, 2008
Jerika an outstanding young lady who never complained about anything that she endured. She was so full of life who always had a smile and a hug to give you. You have tought us life is to short and we should all live it to the fullest. We miss you dearly but, we are happy that you will never miss out on those little things any longer. Your memories will live on forever in all you have touched. We will love and miss you. Uncle Tony, Aunt Tina, T, Lauren, Tyler, Zach
Beth Pfleger
September 19, 2008
I am very saddened to learn of Jerika's passing. She was always happy and eager to please.
My condolences to the Teal family. I hope the strength of your friends, family, and all those who cared about Jerika will carry you through this difficult time.
The Dorado Family
September 19, 2008
Dear David, Tina, Jordan, & Jenna,
Our hearts and prayers go out to you during this time of loss what ever you guys need let us know
Your Friends in Christ,
Amanda Kuykendall
September 19, 2008
Jerika was such an amazing person. She will be missed by many. There was never a dull moment when she was present. I will keep yall in my prayers. God Bless.
Judy & Dana Arnold
September 19, 2008
She's in God's hands, safe forever more...We are so sorry for your loss.
Cody, and family
Cody Arnold
September 19, 2008
Warm Summer Sun
Warm summer sun,
Shine kindly here,
Warm southern wind,
Blow softly here.
Green sod above,
Lie light, lie light.
Good night, dear heart,
Good night, good night.
By Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens)
The Poetry Foundation
Aunt Chrissy
September 19, 2008
Our Precious Jerika Dawn, May you be at peace. I will always remember your sweet smile and gentle laughter and ofcourse those beautiful curls. I love you and miss you.
Carmen Chamale
September 19, 2008
Jerika,
I can't believe that you are no longer here. We spent many years together from elementary school on. I know you are in a way better place now, no more suffering. We all will miss you greatly. I will never forget you. Please just keep an eye on us.
Kevin & Mandy LeVine
September 19, 2008
Dear Teal Family,
We are greatly saddened at the news of Jerika's passing. Please know that your family is in our thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time. May the Lord give you strength in your time of need.
Jackie Wheatcraft
September 19, 2008
Our family’s prayers are with you. She will be greatly missed by many. She brought joy to everyone who met her. With everything she has been through, I never saw her without a smile on her face.
Our fondest memories of Jerika and the family are during the stay at our home for the hurricanes.
Lorne, Jackie, Kris, Kelsie, Heather, Lance & Jamie
Peggy Robinson
September 19, 2008
Tina, Jordon, and the rest of the Teal Family, my prayers, thoughts, love, and sympathy are yours as you go through this trying time. Let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
TRACI BIDDIX
September 19, 2008
MY PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY. JERIKA WAS MY BEST FRIEND.. WE SPENT ALOT OF TIME TOGETHER.. I KNOW SHE IS IN A FAR BETTER PLACE NOW WITH NO SUFFERING AN SHE IS WATCHING OVER US... I CAN NOT WAIT UNTIL THE DAY THAT I CAN SEE HER AGAIN.... SHE WILL FOREVER REMAIN IN MY THOUGHTS AN MY HEART.. I LOVE YOU JERIKA..
Robin DeMay
September 19, 2008
Dear Tina & Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I have always loved your children.
Tonya Cloud
September 19, 2008
Jerika, you will always be the sweetest person that I have met! No more pain! I will continue to pray for your family because I know they will miss you dearly!
Rae Argo
September 19, 2008
Your Kingsford Elementary Family is praying for you and your family. We are asking God to give you strength and Peace.
Katherine Teal
September 19, 2008
Rika Roo,
You were our ray of sunshine and you are such a very big part of my heart, I will cherish every moment of everyday that we spent together, our beach weekends, shopping and just you cuddling up with me watching movies. I love you so much and I miss you so much already, you are my angel who now has her wings. I love you my baby girl.
Aunt Kathy
Rachel Lancaster
September 19, 2008
Dear Teal Family
Jerika will forever be miss. She touched our lives in so many different ways. It was our pleasure that she let us become apart of her life. We love her and will forever miss her greatly. Our prayers and thoughts our with the whole family. God Bless you all. She was a very special person. If you need anything please lets us know. Love, The Lancasters
Mary Ackroyd
September 19, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss. I know the heartbreak of losing a daughter. I have lost two. Even though I don't know you, your family is in my prayers.
Remember the bible says: To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Jerika has already seen the face of Jesus.
Katie Payson
September 19, 2008
Spread your wings & fly Jerika, no more pain & suffering - you're an angel now =) watch over us!! R.I.P.
Kerri & Scott Wetherington
September 19, 2008
Our deepest sympathy to the entire family. Jerika was truly an angel and an amazing person. We will miss her and the smile that she always had on her face. Through all her trials and tribulations she always had the most amazing spirit! We are here if you need us.
September 19, 2008
Your family will remain in our prayers.
Staff of Community First Credit Union, Mulberry
Tanya Jones
September 19, 2008
To the whole family...my prayers are with all of you. Jerika will be missed but she is with jesus in heaven now and she can breathe with no problems. May god keep his hands on all of you.
Betsy Stroup
September 19, 2008
Teal Family ~
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Jerika, touched our lives in a positive way. She will forever be remembered.
Love, Bets
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