Terri Wilson (Lansing)

Ms. Terri (Tur-Ree) Fredericka Dodd Wilson passed away Monday, December 2024, at University of Michigan Health Sparrow in Lansing, Michigan. Age 63 years. She was born Wednesday, October 11, 1961, in Lansing Michigan. She is the daughter of Charles Austin and Tennie Dodd Cowley.

Terri brought joy and laughter to everyone she met. Terri’s vibrant spirit and loving nature left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Her parents, who preceded her in death, nurtured her bright spirit. 

Terri grew up in Lansing, Michigan, where she became a mother at just 14, welcoming her beloved son, Earljuan Lee Dodd, and marrying his father, Terry Wilson. A dedicated worker, she held several jobs early in life, including Wendy’s and Burger King. One of her favorite roles was at Hall’s Cleaning, a position her sister Tracie helped her secure. Determined to achieve more, Terri earned her GED and a culinary degree from Grand Rapids Job Corps in 1981.

In 1988, Terri moved to New Jersey. Where she found her career job of 25 years, a manager of Chick-fil-A. Her talents and charisma led her to help open several new locations across the country. Known for her infectious laughter and playful personality, Terri lived life to the fullest, surrounded herself with love, fun, and people who adored her, especially her many friends in New Jersey and Philadelphia. 

Terri certainly had a gift for making others feel loved and included. Despite facing the devastating loss of her son, Terri’s strength and determination never wavered. She poured her energy into her 3 passions—work, family, and shopping of course. 

Family was Terri’s greatest pride. She played a vital role in helping raise her sister’s six adopted children, sharing her unwavering love and support. Her bonds with her siblings and countless nieces, nephews, and friends were filled with warmth and fun.

In 2020, Terri faced one of her toughest challenges, surviving five months on a ventilator due to COVID-19. Due to her fighting spirit, she awoke waving her hand which was her saying "Hi," as we all knew her to do. Despite ongoing health struggles, she continued to live her best life, filled with love, laughter, and a strength that inspired everyone around her.

Terri is survived by one brother, Antonious (Tricia) Vickers; two sisters, Nadine (Leroy)Thurman and Desnal Vickers-Fouyolle including her special adopted nephew, Mikeem McCormick; many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends.

She is reunited in heaven with her son, Earljuan Lee Dodd; father, Charles Austin; mother Tennie Cowley; sister, Tracie McElwee; brother, Wade Keith Moore and other loved ones who preceded her.

Terri’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and resilience. She will forever remind us to embrace life with joy and cherish every moment.