Teresa S. (Thrailkill) Conner

Teresa S. Conner

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Teresa Sue (Thrailkill) Conner, who left us on Friday, July 11, 2025.  At the age of 64, she departed peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and compassion that touched the lives of everyone who knew her.

Born on September 4, 1960, in Columbia City, Teresa was a beacon of light in our lives.  Her beauty radiated from within, manifesting in her nurturing spirit and warm smile.

She dedicated her life to caring for her family and friends, always putting others before herself.  Her compassion knew no bounds, and her generosity was felt by all who crossed her path.

Teresa had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel special and cherished.  Whether it was through her delicious home-cooked meals, her comforting hugs, or her wise words of encouragement, she had a unique way of making life’s burdens lighter.  Her home was a sanctuary filled with love, laughter and countless cherished memories.  She was not only a devoted wife and mother, but was also a loving grandmother, sister-in-law, cousin and friend.

She was a 1979 graduate of Blackford High School and married the love of her life, Kevin Conner on June 12, 1982.  Teresa was well-known and loved throughout the community, as she was employed in the school system, spending the early part of her career at St. John’s Riedman Memorial School and finishing it with Blackford County Schools.

Her legacy will live on, not only through her husband of forty-three years, but also through her daughters Danielle (Clint) Dickey and Kaitlin (J.W.) Rinker.  Her grandchildren:  Kennedy Dickey (fiancé, Jaden Reum), Cole Dickey, Conner Dickey and Brantley Rinker.   A sister-in-law, to whom she held dearly, Kimberlee “Kim” Sherbrooke, her chosen son: Jason Burnside (Kimberly) and their two children, along with several nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends (who were just like family), who will forever carry her spirit in their hearts.  Her brother, Gary (Sherry) Thrailkill of North Carolina, also are left behind.

In her honor, we invite all who knew her to celebrate her life and the love she shared.  Services will be held on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the Waters Funeral Home, Hartford City. Friends may call from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00. Pastor Glenn Greiner of Union Chapel Ministries will be presiding and burial will take place at Jones Cemetery, West of Muncie, following services.

Friends and family will have a day of remembrance and reflection on Tuesday, from 1:00 – 4:00 & 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., also at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, Teresa’s family asks that you consider a memorial contribution, to be left in care of the funeral home or Citizens State Bank, 1515 N. Walnut St., Hartford City, as a fund is being established for children-in-need, in the community.

Though we grieve her passing, we find comfort in the beautiful memories she created and the love she spread so freely.  Teresa will be deeply missed but never forgotten.  Her spirit will continue to guide us, reminding us to love fiercely and live kindly, just as she did.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Teresa S. (Thrailkill) Conner, please visit our floral store.