Teresa Merrell Self

It is with profound love and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and sister, Teresa Merrell Self, who departed this life peacefully on June 2, 2025, at the age of 78.

Born on December 28,1946 in Birmingham Alabama, Teresa lived a life full of grace, resilience, and compassion. She was the heart of our family-a steady presence through generations, offering wisdom, warmth, and an unwavering love that stitched us all together.

Teresa was married to James Merrell, with whom she shared 35 beautiful years. Together, they built a life rooted in family, faith, and hard work. She raised 3 children and helped guide countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren with her gentle strength and steady hands.

After James passed away, she married Wade Self, with whom she shared several years of companionship, travel, and adventure before he passed away.

Known for her homemade fudge and forgotten cookies, her humming of old hymns in the kitchen, and the stories she shared, she created a legacy not only of tradition but of unconditional love. Whether it was her thoughtful advice, comforting embrace, or infectious laughter, Teresa had a way or making everyone feel at home in her presence.

She was preceded in death by her mother, father, late husbands as well as countless other loved ones and leaves behind a family who will miss her deeply, her children- Christopher, Gina, and Jacqueline; grandchildren, Brandon, Candace, Alexis, Joshua, Blake, Elise, Daynan, and Brooklyn; great-grandchildren, Victor III, Liam, Ezekiel, Selena, Eli, Aubrey, Bethany, Lillane, and Madilynn; and sisters and brothers, Donna Robinson (Gerry), Priscilla King, Jonette Nix (Gary), Doug Roberts (Sandy), and Roger Roberts.

A visitation will be held on June 7, 2025, from 1pm until 2pm at John Ridout’s Elmwood Chapel. A celebration of Teresa’s life will follow at 2pm in the chapel. She will be laid to rest at Elmwood Cemetery. Her family invites all who knew and loved her to attend and share in honoring the incredible woman she was.

In her memory, we ask that you hug your loved ones a little tighter, tell your stories a little louder, and never underestimate the power of a warm meal and a kind heart - just as she taught us.

Rest gently, Nanny. You were truly one of a kind.