Terri's obituary
We mourn the passing of Teresa "Terri" Lynn Slagle who left us on February 7, 2026. She was born, March 15, 1955, in Fort Knox Kentucky to James Slagle and Sheila Dunn.
Terri is survived by her loving husband, Robert Kingston Axelberg Jr, whom she married in May 1986 and cherished for 40 years. She leaves behind her children, Danielle and Travis Axelberg, as well as her brother, James Robert Slagle. Terri was blessed to have four granddaughters and one grandson: Harmony, London, Maya, Mila, and Gabriel. Her heart held close memories of those who predeceased her: her grandmother Florence Whitaker, sister Tina Sage, and her parents, Sheila Marie Lewis and James Franklin Slagle.
Known for her kindness, warmth, and caring nature, Terri lit the world around her. She was not only an amazing mentor for her clients at New Hope but also deeply cared about mentally handicapped adults and children. Terri’s legacy is the love and kindness she instilled in her children and grandchildren.
Terri enjoyed cheese, popcorn, eggs, Good n Plenty, and Nico candies. Her mornings started with a hot cup of tea, and she savored a Yeungling beer at night. Her taste in books varied from Danielle Steele to David Baldacci and Jack Reacher. Music was a big part of Terri’s life, with favorites including The Beatles, The Eagles, Journey, and Michael W. Smith. She enjoyed watching The Walking Dead, Chicago Fire, Chicago PD, and Chicago Med on TV, and her favorite movie was The Sound of Music.
Playing games like Scrabble and Telestrations with her family and friends brought Terri joy. She loved reading, cooking, spending time with her grandkids, and relaxing on her heating pad. Her grandchildren brought her much joy, and she was at the hospital when each of them were born. Terri found peace in Michigan, Tennessee, and Hawaii, her favorite vacation spots. She enjoyed local outings to El Rodeo with her husband and Dave N Busters for Gabriel's birthday.
Her favorite color was green. The best lesson she imparted on those around her was her gift of forgiveness. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, and mentor, Terri’s greatest accomplishment was the love and kindness she shared with everyone she encountered.
Terri’s life was one of love, warmth, and compassion. Her memory will forever be a beacon of kindness and love in the hearts of her loved ones. Her life was a testament to the power of love and kindness in action, which will continue to inspire those she has left behind.