Teresa Holton

Teresa Holton, aged 61, of Williamsville, passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO.

Born on August 31, 1962, in Boulder, CO, Teresa was the cherished daughter of Donald Sharp and Marianne Haffey.

On July 13, 1991, Teresa married Nick Holton at the Williamsville United Methodist Church, where their love blossomed into a partnership filled with laughter, support, and shared dreams.

Teresa is survived by her husband, Nick; her children, Lucas Holton and Grace Holton; her brothers, Tim (wife Cindy) Sharp and Dennis Sharp; her sister, Judy (husband Ron) Englehart; her brother-in-law, Mike (wife Sara) Holton; her sister-in-law, Deb (husband Brent) Roberts; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Marianne Haffey and Donald Sharp, her mother and father-in-law, Jo Ann and Hap Holton, and her nephew, Holt Roberts.

Teresa dedicated her life to nurturing young minds during her 40-year teaching career. From the snow-capped mountains of Colorado to the bustling halls of Southeast High School in Springfield, Illinois, she poured her heart into shaping the lives of her students. As head of the English department, Teresa's impact extended far beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting mark on generations of students. Her contributions to education were recognized with the Horace Mann Educator of the Year award for District 186 in 2010.

When she wasn’t teaching, Teresa found joy in reading and writing. She wrote a touching memoir about her life and often crafted poems and poetry treasured by her family. An admirer of Shakespeare, she often recited his verses proudly. Further, Teresa's love for skiing led her to meet her husband, Nick, who worked vigorously to get her attention. Both seasoned ski instructors, their shared passion for skiing became a cherished family tradition, passed down to their children. Yet, amidst her adventures, Teresa enjoyed the simple moments. She loved sitting on her back porch, surrounded by the soothing sounds of birds, caring for her flowers. Teresa radiated a quiet joy that touched all who knew her.

Visitation for Teresa will be held from 4:00 until 7:00 PM on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at the Williamsville United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 3, 2024, also at the church, with Rev. John Macintosh officiating.

Burial will be held at Fancy Creek Cemetery near Sherman, IL immediately after the services.

Teresa's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Though she may have departed this world, her endless love for her children and family, and ability to make anyone feel special, will continue to inspire and uplift us all.

Memorial contributions can be made to NPR or the Animal Protective League.