Teresa Marie Koury Decker, a loving sister, mother, grandmother (Situ) and one-in-a-million friend, died peacefully in her sleep October 20, 2026.
“Terrye” was born February 19, 1933 in Pittsburgh, PA, the third of 10 children born to Nina and Joseph Koury of Zahle, Lebanon. As a young child, she lived on a block full of relatives until her parents moved to Richmond, VA, where the Kourys grew into a large and loving family. A model student, Terry graduated valedictorian from St. Patrick’s School and later magna cum laude from Virginia Wesleyan College in Norfolk, VA.
Terrye was not just first in her class, in most areas she was in a class of her own. When she sang, modeled, acted, gave speeches, or wrote, she captured attention. She was an entertainer, a storyteller, she was as quick-witted as a comedian and she was beautiful; some saw Raquel Welch, others (including the man who demanded her autograph) saw Sophia Loren.
In 1965, she married the late Dr. Sterling Randolph Decker Jr. and moved to Virginia Beach where she helped him open one of the first local urology practices.
Terrye volunteered tirelessly for more than a dozen medical, religious and civic groups including the Virginia Beach General Hospital Auxiliary, Virginia Beach Hospice, the Linlier Civic League and the Sugar Plum Bakery. More than half a century ago, Terrye joined Star of the Sea Catholic Church where she served in countless roles from Eucharistic Minister to Director of Adult Education.
Professionally, Terrye began practicing real estate with GSH in 1988 and finished her career at 90 with Berkshire Hathaway. A relationship business, selling houses came as naturally to her as belting out show tunes. She would even help her clients decorate their new homes with the Florentine-French Provincial gold gilt, crystal, marble and velvet decor from her own home. Terrye embraced maximalism and the unique beauty she created was a treasure to behold.
This is who Terrye was. Equally important is what she was not.
She was never dull, or boring. She lived, loved and believed in extremes. She was a trusted friend and a fun mom. She was just as likely to be singing out loud to musicals in the movie theater as she was to be dancing to the hymns in her pew. She was never a follower. She had her own fashion sense (sequins, lace, metallics, whites and jewel tones) and was “dressed to the nines” wherever she went. And she loved her big coordinating hats. She rocked them so much from church to Nick’s to the No Frill Grill, that she was fondly known around Virginia Beach as “The Hat Lady”.
She was never a snob. She befriended anyone with a good heart and a need she could fill. She made room at holidays for those with nowhere to go. People of all ages gravitated to her. She was fiercely candid and equally loyal. Visits with TK left you inspired and laughing between tears.
She was never afraid of death. Her extraordinary connection with the Heavenly Father was so strong that even on dark days when others might have faltered, her faith sustained her. Terrye’s faith, like everything else about her, demanded attention…It showed her miracles and its light shone so brightly it warmed those lucky enough to be around her.
Terrye is survived by her three children: Mari-Jamille Decker Alimard (Ramin); Dr. Sterling Randolph Decker, III; and Danielle Decker Jones (Jeff); two grandchildren, Ava Parisa Alimard and Nicolas Amin Alimard, four beloved siblings, dozens of nieces and nephews; and her spiritual son, Father Steve DeLeon.
In her memory: dance to your favorite hymn; invite a stranger in need to your holiday table; find humor in as much as you can; live on your own terms with good intentions; treat everyone you meet equally and like family; and look for miracles.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Saturday November 21st at 10am.
Rest in peace Mom and thank you for giving this world everything you had to give.

Simply Cremation is assisting the family.