TERI JOSEPH

November 12th 1960 - August 09th 2022
Wairau, New Zealand

“Her laughter is still heard in every story we tell”

Loved mother of Uriah, Ashleigh, and Elias. Cherished sister of Tina, Jamie, Marcia and Junior. Proud Nanny to Gianni, Maz, Mahli, Remy, and Tiaki.

Teri lived life with colour, laughter, heart and soul. She was never one to sit still - a sportswoman, a woman of faith, fearless, bold and a go-getter through and through. When she wanted something done, it got done.

She had a special name or a tune for everyone. She had her own lingo, and expressive ways, “ski-daddle” was her signature exit and she was a laugh a minute - loud, funny, upfront, and unforgettable. She was also caring, loved her grandchildren deeply and did all that she could to show them what childhood was all about. Fun.

Her laugh could fill a room, her cooking could fill a table, and her love could fill a heart. Family dinners weren’t just meals - they were gatherings, full of stories, food, and noise that always ended in laughter. (mostly haha)

Her time here was shorter than we ever expected, but she faced it all with courage and humour, never losing her spark, and had her boys by her side.

Now resting with her Daughter, Sister, Brother, Mum and Dad, Teri is home again - at the Urupā in Wairau. Surrounded by her whānau.

MEMORY WALL

Shared Moments, Forever Remembered.

This space is a collection of memories, words, and stories from the people who knew and loved her best. Whether it was a quick laugh, a shared adventure, or a quiet moment that stuck - every post here helps paint the picture of a life well lived and deeply felt. It’s especially special to read about moments others might not have seen - glimpses of who she was through the eyes of friends, co-workers, classmates, and family. These shared memories mean the world, especially to those closest to her.

“Mum. We had a rocky road at times, but we got there in the end. I’m grateful for that - for every laugh, every talk, and every moment we managed to make count.

Life feels different without you here, but knowing you’re with Ash brings me some peace. I hope you ladies are all laughing loud somewhere, just like you used to.

You were our rock, our chaos, our heart. I love you, Mum, always will.”

— Bobby

— Tiaki

“I miss you nanny, you taught me how to play knuckle bones, and you always bought a big bag of lollies over for us!! I miss the big dinners and puddings when we came over. I love you my tiki bird brain with all my heart xoxo ”

— Mahli

“I miss you nanny, and I wish you were still here. I love you. I have your glasses safe in my bedside drawer and they remind me of you. You would really love Tiaki and we sing him ‘my tiki bird brain’ for you ”