In Loving Memory of Teri Biggs
By Cheryl Hipke

One of life's greatest treasures is the love that binds the hearts together in friendship. Such a treasure we knew in Theresa Fennell Biggs. What was it that made us friends so long ago? It was the best of her that brought out the best that is within me. It was that smile…. That sparkle in her eyes… that zest for life…. The kindness in her heart… and the expectation of nothing more from her friends than she was willing to give herself.

Ten years ago Teri moved from Dallas, Texas to Northern Virginia to explore career opportunities and start a new life. I was in need of a production typist and someone who could work well under pressure - or at least pretend to smile, even when things seemed at their worst. Teri's background was in sales but she had personality, so we decided that I'd teach her how to type and she'd teach me how to tell a joke. She learned how to type really fast, and I still can't tell a joke.

We shared a bond of friendship that was close as any sister's, and Teri told me on many occasions that one of the happiest moments in her life was her marriage to Tom on April 8, 1988. I considered it a great honor to be part of their special day. Some thought Tom and Teri were an unlikely couple, but once they entered each other's lives, their journey together became richer and fuller and more wonderful than they ever thought it could be, each watching over and caring for the other. Blessed is the influence of one true loving human soul for another.

Although Teri is no longer with us in body, her spirit is speaking to us today. As we ponder in our hearts and minds her departure from this life, her message to every one of us would be:

Let your faith throw its arms around all God has told you, and in every dark hour remember that… it is only like going through a tunnel. The sun has not ceased shining because the traveler through the tunnel has ceased to see it; and the Son of Righteousness is still shining, although you in your dark tunnel do not see Him. Be patient and trustful, and wait.

In addition to Tom, the joy that filled Teri's heart was their daughter, Elizabeth. From the very beginning she stole the show with her record breaking weigh-in of more than 11 pounds. Leave it to Teri to do things in a grand way! Her legacy lives on in Elizabeth, and as we watch her grow and mature, we will be reminded of Teri's enduring spirit.

A co-worker… a wife… a mother… a friend… And so, my friend, I will treasure our friendship forever. The moments we spent together are timeless keepsakes that touched my life forever.

March 25, 1997

April 8th, 1988