Theresa Jones

Terry Wells-Jones, born Theresa Woods on March 13, 1941, in Cotton Plant, Arkansas, to the union of the late Odessa (Davis) and Leroy Woods, lived a life filled with faith, elegance, and purpose. From her earliest days, Terry was drawn to the spiritual foundation of the Church of Christ — a faith that would guide her throughout her extraordinary journey. Rooted in principles of God, Family, and Excellence, she embodied the strength and grace of a proud heritage.

Awarded a full academic scholarship to the University of Wisconsin, Terry earned a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Med and Business Administration and became a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Although she was called to medicine, destiny offered a different spotlight. Terry seized on a chance opportunity to be recognized not only for her intellect but also for her statuesque, melanin beauty, and poise — from starring in Pepsi television commercials to appearing on the front page of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel Sunday edition’s women’s section, and serving as a muse to the legendary Oscar de la Renta. These groundbreaking moments challenged norms and expectations — as did motherhood, a role she embraced with devotion and joy.

Seeking balance between career and family, Terry boldly entered the 1970s male-dominated world of corporate America — and she took it by storm, redefining what was possible for women in business. At the New York City sales office of Burlington Industries, a textile and apparel company, Terry shattered barriers as the first female sales executive.

Building on this success, Terry held executive sales roles at Avon Products, Marriott Corporation, Body Wise Nutrition, and Physicians Mutual, consistently surpassing goals and leaving a lasting mark on every team she led. Terry received countless industry awards and regular media attention, including being recognized in Fairchild Publications’ Woman Power in Textile & Apparel, and was listed four consecutive years in Who’s Who of American Women.

Terry married Irvin LaWayne Jones, her partner in love, faith, and adventure. Together, they built a life filled with joy — from Sunday worship and dinner with friends to a shared passion for travel and fine food.

Terry’s wanderlust knew no bounds. By air, by sea, or by road, she delighted in the world’s wonders — walking the Great Wall of China, sailing the Mediterranean, savoring sunsets in Tahiti, and cruising the Pacific Coast, Alaska, Canada, Mexican Riviera, and the Caribbean. She cherished the freedom of the open road as they traveled to 46 of the lower 48 states in their Country Coach motorhome. Among her many adventures, Venice, Italy, held a special place in her heart – perhaps because the city of canals, much like Terry herself, was stunning and storied, romantic with a mysterious side, adaptable with a unique way of navigating challenges, and rich in life.

Terry leaves to cherish her memory, her loving husband of 45 years, Irvin LaWayne Jones,daughter Karen Mewborn (Don E.) Mackie, son Brandy O’Dell (Britta) Wells,Grandchildren Eugene Layeffette Mewborn II, Mariah Nicole Mewborn, Jada Woods, great-grandchild Royalty Mewborn, in-laws: Emily Carey, Peronia Davis, Russell Carey, Pearlie Carey Simmons, Cheryl Wells, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=9033283&fr_id=154020&pg=personal

“My goal is to die with a lot of memories, not dreams.”

— Terry Wells-Jones