Terri Sutovich was born on July 26, 1965, to Ralph Marker and Sandra Nordgren Carter, in Carmel, California. She passed away on January 29, 2026, in Houston, Texas at the age of 60.
Terri is survived by her mother, Sandra Cater; beloved husband, Tim Sutovich; sons, Robert Estep & wife Jennifer, Jeremiah Estep; daughters Amber Lee & husband Derrick, Ksandra Morigeau & husband Robbie; siblings, Kimberly Boykin, Randy Marker & wife Sharon; grandchildren, Brooke Hurt, Roni Hurt, Anmarie Morigeau, Jesse Morigeau, Emma Estep, Rory Estep, Jaythan Lee, Lanaya Lee, Grayson Lee and Kyrin Lee; as well as many other family members and a host of friends.
She is preceded in death by her father, and grandson Tristan Estep.
Terri Sutovich devoted more than 30 years to early childhood development, shaping not just classrooms but generations. She was a fierce advocate for children, a steady guide for educators, and a constant presence of love, patience, and kindness wherever she worked. Her impact lives on in the countless young lives she nurtured and the adults they became.
Terri and her husband, Tim, were married in 1995, beginning a partnership defined by loyalty, shared sacrifice, and deep affection. As a U.S. Army family, they moved across the country together, dedicating their energy to raising four children and creating a stable, loving home wherever they were stationed. After his retirement, they turned their attention to adventures just for themselves—cruises, long rides on their Harley, and road trips that became treasured times of conversation, laughter, and shared discovery. Together, they faced life’s challenges and joys side by side, their love steady through every season.
At the center of her life was her family. She loved her husband and children profoundly, anchoring them with unwavering devotion. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy, a radiant light that fed her soul and brought laughter and meaning to her days. Terri made her relationships with family a priority, not just in words, but in daily action. Friday calls with her daughter were sacred—watching favorite shows together, sharing thoughts and laughter, and creating moments that became their own special tradition. Every Sunday, she connected with her sons, her sister, and her mother. She never missed a week. Those calls were filled with love, humor, and stories—some new, some long-remembered, but always meaningful and heartfelt. She invested in her family with intention, presence, and consistency, setting a standard of care and commitment that few achieve. Her example reminds us that the truest measure of love is showing up, week after week, moment by moment, for those who matter most.
Terri’s passion extended to the small, everyday joys as well. She loved bargain shopping, whether wandering aisles on her own, exploring with her daughters, or even with a slightly less enthusiastic husband in tow. Her finds were often random treasures, many of which became part of her home, sparked projects with her grandchildren, or were given as thoughtful gifts to family members. Each was chosen with care, a simple expression of her love and a personal touch that left a lasting mark on those around her.
Her life was defined by adventure, passion, and love—whether in her dedication to children, her devotion to family, or the quiet pleasures and surprises she sought in everyday moments. Terri’s warmth, energy, and joy touched everyone who knew her, and her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift all who were lucky enough to be part of her world.
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