Obituaries

Teresa “Terri” McElfresh, 65, of Villa Hills, Kentucky, passed away with loved ones by her side on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Healthcare in Edgewood, Kentucky.

Terri was a hardworking and selfless woman who devoted much of her life to helping others. She owned and operated McElfresh Cleaning for 25 years before beginning her work with Heaven Sent Care, where she served as a caregiver for the past 10 years. In that role, Terri formed close bonds with the people she cared for, becoming not just a caregiver, but a trusted companion and friend who loved them dearly.

She found joy in simple things. Terri loved dancing and live music of all kinds. She adored cardinals, soaking up the sunshine, shoe shopping and watching sports. A loyal University of Kentucky fan, she also had a soft spot for red ICEEs. Terri cherished her “girl time” with her childhood friends and valued those lifelong connections deeply. Among those friendships, her lifelong bond with her best friend, Lisa Hellmann, held a special place in her heart. Their friendship spanned decades and was filled with laughter, talks, shared memories, and unwavering loyalty. Through every season of life, Lisa was by Terri’s side – celebrating joys, offering strength during hardships, and sharing in the everyday moments that meant most. Their friendship was a true testament to love, faithfulness, and the beauty of chosen family.

Above all, Terri loved her family. She gave her whole heart to her daughter Brooke, and her granddaughter Nola, who was the absolute light of her life and her greatest pride and joy. Being “Nana” to Nola was Terri’s most treasured role. She rarely missed a sporting event, school function, or special moment, always showing up with unwavering support. Terri loved spoiling Nola in little ways – whether it was sharing sweet treats, shopping trips, or simply spending time together laughing and talking. The bond they shared was deep and special, filled with affection, encouragement, and countless cherished memories. Time spent with Brooke, Nola, Chad and her family meant everything to Terri. Chad, her son-in-law cared for her with compassion, strength and patience. He was not just a son-in-law, but a true gift to her life.

She was preceded in death by her mother and stepfather, Judy Davenport Heddin and Aubrey “Orb” Heddin; father, Charles McElfresh; and niece, Brittani McElfresh.

Terri is survived by her loving daughter Brooke Bilz, son-in-law Chad Bilz; granddaughter, Nola Daven Bilz; stepmother, Joyce McElfresh; brother, Jeffrey McElfresh (Jenna Brock); sister, Shelley Lynn Ealy; brother-in-law, Brian Ealy; lifelong best friend Lisa Hellmann; step siblings: Tonya Hurst, Jake Yelton, David Yelton and Jackie Reay; nephew, Blake Ealy; nieces, Alexa and Macy McElfresh; good friends: Connie, Patie, Kathy, Peggy and the late, Tracy Gick; along with loved aunts, uncles, cousins and many other friends.

In accordance with Terri’s wishes, a celebration of life will be held privately at the convenience of her family.

Memorials are suggested to the Leukemia Research Foundation (Acute Myeloid Leukemia).