In loving memory of Theresa Marie Beneteau (nee. Ellwood)
On March 10, 2026, at the age of 89, Terry joined her beloved parents Bill and Evelyn and her husband Paul in eternal rest. She is survived by her children Greg, Paula St-Gelais (Dan), and Renee. Special Grandma to Calvin (Lowen), Luc (Kiersten), and Ela Beneteau-Nader. Terry spent her life joyfully surrounded by her siblings Tom (Gerri), Marilyn Maddison (late Michael), Allan (late Anne), Dolores Shaw (late Russ), Bud (Marie), as well as the late Bernie Casey (late Leo Joncas) and the late Ricky (June) and Jack (Grace). She will be missed by her brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends.
Dementia can be a heartbreaking condition, yet it also offers some unexpected gifts. As an incredibly organized note-taker, Terry documented her life meticulously. Even as her memory declined, she found comfort in going through countless photo albums with each picture carefully labeled and captioned. She reminisced about both Ellwood and Beneteau family gatherings, trips around the globe, annual camping adventures, weekly card club meetings with friends, lifelong high school pals (especially Vera), along with numerous musical theatre programs from her ushering days. Her favorite albums featured moments with her grandchildren throughout their lives as they grew up.
One memory that never faded was her love for her parents. The happiness on her face when she spoke about them was like she was expecting them for dinner that evening.
Another gift of dementia is the ability to let go of worries and enjoy each day as it comes. She learned to simply participate in life again. Dementia removes barriers and allowed Terry to experience a joyful mindset similar to that of a child. Her eye rolls, shrugs, and finger-pointing brought smiles to the wonderful caretakers at Seasons Royal Oak Memory Care daily. Terry was fortunate to have spent three-and-a-half active years there where she received dignity and respect in care. Caring for someone with dementia often turns roles around; Paula lovingly stepped into a parental role while Marilyn became like an older sister. Despite facing dementia challenges, Terry remained strong-willed and independent until she found peace.
Arrangements entrusted to Windsor Chapel Funeral Home (CENTRAL) 519-253-7234, 1700 Tecumseh Rd E. A visitation will be held Friday, April 17, 2026 from 10:00am – 11:00am at Most Precious Blood Church located at 1947 Meldrum Rd. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00am in the Church with interment at Heavenly Rest Cemetery afterwards.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Theresa’s honor may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Windsor-Essex County.
Online Condolences and Cherished Memories can be shared at www. windsorchapel. com
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