TERI MICHELLE JEFFERSON-EGWU, ESQ

Teri Michelle Egwu was born on May 27, 1958, in West Palm Beach, Florida. She was the firstborn child of Winifred Yvonne Jefferson and Harvey Philip Jefferson, Sr. Teri was the loving big sister of Harvey “Chip” Jefferson, Jr., and Jill Marie Jefferson, and the devoted wife of Victor N. Egwu for 44 years. 

From a young age, Teri was a caring and compassionate child who always looked out for others. She was protective of her siblings, eager to lead, and full of energy and determination. At age eleven, her family moved to Indianapolis, where she attended Crooked Creek Elementary, Westlane Junior High, and Ladywood–St. Agnes High School. During her school years, she especially enjoyed participating in plays and serving on the debate team. 

Teri attended Howard University, where she studied communications and discovered her passion for broadcast news and journalism. She later continued her education at Howard University School of Law, graduating in 1983. 

In 1984, Teri welcomed her beloved son, John Aka Egwu, who was the absolute joy of her life. Her family was always at the center of her world, and she devoted herself wholeheartedly to them. She managed her husband’s medical practice for ten years, all while ensuring that her family was nurtured and supported. Teri also cultivated deep and lasting friendships, many of whom she considered part of her extended family. She went above and beyond for everyone she loved. 

Teri was a radiant, uplifting presence who made all those around her feel valued and cared for. Her church family, extended family, friends, and community were deeply important to her. She was always ready with a helping hand, a word of encouragement, or a listening ear. Teri never met a stranger—only friends she hadn’t gotten to know yet. 

Her faith community was central to her life. She was a member of Witherspoon Presbyterian Church for 25 years and later became a charter member of Covenant Community Church. She faithfully served in many roles—from greeter to exemplary care partner—a responsibility she embraced with heartfelt dedication. When mobility challenges made it difficult for her to greet people after service, Teri simply created a new tradition: she “held court” at the back of the sanctuary, where friends and church members happily came to her. 

Despite significant health challenges, Teri never allowed anything to diminish her spirit or her commitment to others. She and her mother volunteered to read to children needing extra support at IPS. She became known as the “queen of card giving,” always keeping a collection of thoughtful cards on hand to celebrate milestones, offer condolences, or simply brighten someone’s day. Teri took everyone under her wing, and she accomplished more in her wheelchair than many could with two healthy legs. 

Teri was a powerful example of perseverance, grace, and positivity in the face of adversity. She was a fighter—steadfast, courageous, and determined to give her family the very best of herself until the very end. She went to her heavenly home on November 16, 2025. She is survived by her husband, Victor N. Egwu, her son John Aka Egwu, her father, Harvey P. Jefferson, Sr., her great Aunt, Barbara Jean Goodman, her siblings, Harvey “Chip” Jefferson and Jill Marie Jefferson, her nieces, Chimdalu Obi and Lindsey D. Jefferson, her nephew, Aaron Slinker, her cousins, Lenard Miller, Sharron Copeland, Vincent Copeland and Tiffanie Thompson and a host of other relatives and loved ones.  

She will be cherished and remembered always. 

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