Terri Norwood Shaw: a devoted wife, beloved mother and grandmother, cherished sister, and treasured friend, passed away peacefully at her home on February 10, 2026. Terri was a deeply spiritual woman whose strong faith guided her life and the way she loved and served others. She believed in leading by example, quietly living her values through kindness, generosity, and compassion. Her favorite quote, "Let it begin with me," was more than a saying. It was the way she lived every day, always choosing to give of herself and to be a source of light for those around her.

Born on November 20, 1949, in Atlanta, Georgia, Terri was the daughter of Ruby and Henry Kimbrough Norwood, who preceded her in death. Being raised in the South, she developed the warmth, charm, and sense of tradition that would define her life. She fondly recalled her childhood, which included getting dressed up for lunch at Rich's Tea Room or S&W Cafeteria, going to the theater to watch Elvis movies, and traveling to Jackson, Georgia to visit family and take part in legendary Easter egg hunts.

Terri graduated from Fulton High School in 1967 and entered the workforce, holding various positions throughout the 1970s. Of all her professional experiences, she spoke most highly of the time she worked for Atlanta Mayor Sam Massell, an opportunity she always remembered with pride and appreciation.

On April 20, 1979, Terri married the love of her life, David Shaw. Their marriage was a true partnership that was rooted in love, laughter, and shared adventure. Shortly after marrying, they moved to Rockaway, New Jersey, where this Southern girl experienced snowy winters, learned to say "yous guys" instead of "y'all," and mastered making authentic Italian spaghetti.

The couple soon returned to Georgia, settling in Marietta, where Terri, David, and her daughter, Tracie, built their home. Over the years, their family grew with the addition of Matthew, Andrew, and Rachel. Throughout her life, Terri balanced work and motherhood with strength and grace. Once Matthew, Andrew, and Rachel were born, she made the decision to become a stay-at-home mother, the role that she took the most pride in and was her true calling. Motherhood meant everything to her, and she poured her heart into raising her children with patience, devotion, and unconditional love. She was, quite simply, the best mother her children could have asked for.

In 1995, Terri and David moved to Milton, Georgia, where she continued to build a life centered on family, faith, and service. Volunteer work was a deeply important part of her life. She was a lifelong member of the Roswell Women's Club and generously gave her time to organizations such as HomeStretch and Senior Services North Fulton, where she especially delighted in organizing annual holiday parties that brought joy to so many.

Terri was the heart and center of her family. She was the creator and keeper of traditions: delicious Sunday suppers, baking Christmas cookies, celebrating Fat Tuesday, and most famously, the annual family beach trip she lovingly planned every year for more than 30 years. Those beach trips were sacred time for the family, where some of their most cherished memories were made.

Her greatest joy in life was her grandchildren. She was deeply involved in their lives, from birthday parties and family dinners to shopping trips, school functions, vacations, and offering gentle wisdom that will guide them throughout their lives. Her love for them was limitless and unwavering.

Terri also loved traveling with her husband, children, grandchildren, and on special "girl's trips." A gifted planner, she had a remarkable talent for creating meaningful experiences and unforgettable journeys. No matter the destination, every trip reflected her thoughtful care and love for bringing people together.

Terri is survived by her loving husband, David Shaw; her sister, Vicki McGill (Thomas McGill); her children: Tracie Steiner (Joseph Steiner), Matthew Shaw (Jeramey Shaw), Andrew Shaw, and Rachel Agee (Joshua Agee); and her beloved grandchildren: Samuel Steiner, Lilly Steiner, Jackson Steiner, Millicent Shaw, Emmerson Shaw, Easton Agee, and Palmer Agee. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were made brighter by knowing her.

Terri's passions were simple yet profound: her family, the beach, traveling, volunteering, cooking, and gardening. With faith at the center of her life and the guiding principle, "Let it begin with me," she showed others what it meant to live with service, love, and quiet strength. Her legacy will continue through the family she held together, the traditions she created, and the countless lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 27, 2026 at Unity North Atlanta Church, 4255 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta, Georgia 30066.

Visiting with family will begin at 10:30 A.M., Service at 11:00 A.M., with a reception immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to ALS United of Georgia or Senior Services North Fulton in Terri's name, honoring her enduring spirit.