Marlene Teresa “Terry” Abkes, 91, of Newnan, GA, passed away peacefully, at home surrounded by her loving family, on November 5, 2023. 

Teresa was born June 23, 1932, in Anniston, AL, to Lionel and Lena Geneva (Jones) Dugas. She grew up in Anniston alongside her parents and her brother and sister. Terry graduated from Anniston High school in 1950.

Ms. Abkes raised four daughters. She had a very long distinguished career as a Personnel Director at Control-O-Fax in Waterloo, IA, and as a Labor Contract Negotiator with Silgan Container in California and Wisconsin. She was the first woman in the history of the company to hold this position!

She was very free-spirited, a walking wanderer and enjoyed exploring new states.  She finally settled in Newnan, GA in 2003 with her daughters Patty and Lisa and her granddaughter Marney and Marney’s two sons Tyler and Cody. Marney was Terry’s full-time dedicated caregiver and confidant.

In retirement, Terry loved to read and watch the Atlanta Braves play ball. She adored her family to no end and her life was complete with them.

Teresa was preceded in death by her parents: Lionel and Lena Dugas; her brother: Bobby Dugas; her sister: Marie Blasé; and her rescue pup: Sugar. She loved her fur babies through the years, both cats and dogs. She is survived by her daughters: Patty Middleton of Newnan, Lisa Jackson of Newnan, Tracy Abkes of Milwaukee, and Tammy Jauregui (David) of Milwaukee; grandchildren: Marney Berg, Mark Bulechek (Wendy), Zach Liger (Ambrosia), Bryant Abkes Knight, Amber Raubs Neubert, Austin Raubs (Chloe); and 15 great-grandchildren.

A private service will be held for Terry by her family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Coco’s Cupboard or Royal Animal Refuge, in honor of Terry Abkes.

The Abkes family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation Fayetteville.