Terika Cole Obituary (1981 - 2016)

Terika Keyshaine Cole, affectionately known to many as “Rika”, returned to her heavenly home at the age of 34, on March 16, 2016 after a valiant battle with a long illness. Her devotion to her family and her firm belief in God supported her in her struggle and ultimately gave her peace. Terika was born to the late Alfred W. Cole and Thelma A. Sheppard, in Easton, MD on June 5, 1981. She received her education from the Queen Anne’s County Public School system. In 1999, she received her diploma from Queen Anne’s County High School and immediately began furthering her education. Terika attended college for two years where she majored in the nursing field. In 2001 and 2002, Terika gave birth to two beautiful daughters. She also became a member of Chosen Generation Deliverance Ministries, Incorporated in late 2001. She served there for thirteen years under the leadership of Bishop Arlene Taylor. In 2015, she became a member of Soul Saving Ministry, Incorporated, serving under the leadership of Pastor Sandra Moore until her transition. Terika was a giver and steward. She possessed a servant’s heart. In spite of being diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2009, Terika didn’t stop giving of herself and helping others in her church and community. She started and led a yearly coat drive while at Chosen Generation. Terika also started and was in charge of the church’s video ministry. She would also open up her home to those in need of a place to stay. One of Terika’s favorite places to go was the consignment shops especially “Samaritan House”. She loved her crossword puzzle books, eating, and listening to her gospel music (especially her favorite artist Fred Hammond). Terika had a sweet and humble personality. She could always be seen speaking and conversing with everyone. Terika was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents, the late Roland and Sadie Sheppard, James Cole, and Gladys Hill. She was also preceded in death by her parents and an uncle. She leaves to cherish her memory her two daughters, Tra-Vonyae “Yaddie” Cole-Daniels and Tra-Veyah “Veyah” Cole-Daniels of Denton, three sisters, Aszaine and Tawine Cole of Denton, and Felicia Deshields of Cambridge, one brother Alfred W. Cole II of Hurlock, 8 nephews, Tra-Vonte, Trent, and Tay’von Towson of Denton, Montreyse, Montreyl, and Ma’Kye Deshields of Denton, Jerell Gerald Sheppard of Cambridge, 9 aunts, 5 uncles, a host of cousins, one godmother, Adelaide Askins, two best friends, Makeisha Turner and Jordan Livingston, and last but not least her second mom Pastor Sandra Moore and her family. She will be dearly missed by her loved ones, who celebrate the fact that she is at peace with her creator.