Teresa Ann Hillmick

Terri Hillmick was deeply loved, fiercely loyal, and truly unforgettable. Teresa Ann Ellis was born on February 13, 1947, in Eugene, Oregon, she was the daughter of LeRoy and June Ellis, (later June Johnson). She was the oldest of four, and had three brothers Greg Ellis (Leslee), Ernie Ellis, and Kelly Ellis (Melinda).

On November 13, 1965, Terri married the love of her life and high school sweetheart, Rod Hillmick. Together they shared sixty years of marriage, a lifetime built on love, perseverance, laughter, and unwavering commitment.

Rod and Terri raised three children who were the center of her world: Rod Hillmick (Tammy), Rob Hillmick (Tammy), and Traci Modugno (Aaron Berry). Nothing brought Terri greater pride or joy than her family, which continued to grow into a beautiful legacy of grandchildren: Alexandrea Rivera (Ian), Whitney Jones (Travis), Emily Johnson (Marques), Michael Hillmick, Jordan Hillmick, Taylor Hillmick (Claire), Bailey Hillmick, and Blake and Kaiden Modugno, and two bonus grandsons, Grant Berry (Grace) and Preston Berry. She was also a devoted great-grandmother to seven great-grandchildren, who were truly the light of her life, with one more arriving this July-a blessing she held close in her heart. She cherished her frequent FaceTime calls with them and lived for those moments of connection.

Terri spent many years working in real estate and advertising sales, but those who knew her, understand that her career was never what defined her. Who she was mattered far more than what she did.

Terri was a mother who never missed a school or sporting event-and often transported half the team along the way. She was always there when she was needed, no questions asked, and she extended that same love and care to her children's friends. Her home was always open, and anyone who walked through her door was treated as family.

She was a grandmother who lived wholeheartedly for her grandchildren. When her body allowed, she traveled across the state to attend Little League games, then high school and college events. When traveling became too difficult, she found joy in listening to every story and watching games through live streams. She dove headfirst into learning everything she could about nonverbal autism so she could better communicate with her grandson Blake-a testament to her devotion and boundless love.

She was a grandma who picked you and your friends up from school every day, and took you to the bowling alley in the summer, which planted a deep seated love for the sport.

She was an aunt, a sister, a family member, and a friend everyone knew they could turn to in a time of need, and she would be there, no questions asked, and no judgment. She was the first to lend a helping hand and the one who never gave up on anyone. She was extraordinary.

She was a soulmate and best friend to her husband for sixty years. Together they grew from teenagers to great grandparents, sharing every stage of life.

Terri carried remarkable strength, determination, and heart. She had a gentle heart and the soul of a warrior. Life challenged her often, but she faced every battle head-on, meeting hardship with grit, grace, and resilience. She never gave up.

Above all else, Terri was loyal-to her husband, her children, her grandchildren, and her family. Her love was fierce, protective, and unconditional, shown in countless quiet ways through her steady presence and unwavering support.

Terri's legacy lives on in the family she loved so deeply and in the strength she passed down through each generation. She will be missed beyond words and loved beyond time.

A celebration of Terri's life will be held on January 31, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Winston Foursquare Gospel Church, 540 SE Main Street, Winston, Oregon.