Teresa M. Neely

Aiken, SC — Teresa Mary Neely, 77, of Aiken, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on her 77th birthday, December 28, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on December 28, 1948, Teresa lived a full and meaningful life devoted to her family, career, faith, and community.

Throughout her professional life, Teresa enjoyed a distinguished career in administrative and human resources roles. She retired from Intel Corporation, serving as executive assistant to the Vice President of Research and Development, and later from Mono County, California, where she worked in Human Resources.

Teresa and her husband, Clay, lived in various places across the country, including Wyoming, Oregon, Alaska, Oregon, Nevada, and finally settling in Aiken, South Carolina. No matter where she and her family lived, Teresa was very giving, always ready to help others with an open heart.

Though she was not blessed with "the direction gene"—she could honestly get lost standing still—her directional challenges only added to her endearing charm. What she lacked in navigation, she more than made up for with the brilliance of baking. Her baking prowess reached a level of mastery that screamed magic, producing treats that brought joy to everyone around her. Christmas and the holiday season were truly special (and a bit chaotic) in the Neely home, as Clay and anyone traveling through competed in constant, good-natured chaos to be the best volunteer taster of her legendary creations.

In Aiken, Teresa poured her energy into service and fellowship. She was a dedicated member of the Mid-Day Lions Club, actively contributing to community initiatives. She piloted a program that provided coats, clothes, and lunches and food for kids and families that needed assistance in the community. She was also a faithful attendee of Cedar Creek Church, where she found strength and spiritual nourishment.

Above all, Teresa was a loving wife to Clay, a devoted mother to her son Jason, grandmother “crazy nanna” to Addy Neely, and a nurturing "mother to many" whose warmth, kindness, and generosity touched countless lives.

She is survived by her husband, Clay Neely; her son, Jason Neely, her granddaughter Addy Neely, a sister to 5 siblings; and many extended family members and dear friends who will cherish her memory.

She has gone home and is in heaven now…She will be greatly missed.

Funeral is January 11th 2pm at Shellhouse - Rivers Funeral Home, 715 East Pine Log Rd., Aiken, Sc 29803.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Lions Club of Aiken (For Hunger Relief), P.O. Box 3271, Aiken, SC 29802 or Cedar Creek Church  

SHELLHOUSE - RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC