Teresa Kay Blum, 62, of Staunton, passed unexpectedly on Friday, November 12, 2021 at her home. Ms. Blum was born on July 20, 1959 in Staunton. She was a daughter of the late Charles James Blum, Jr., Nancy (Huntley Blum) Lotts and Stanley Lotts.

Teresa graduated from Robert E Lee High School in 1977. She received her associates degree in Business from BRCC and went on to pursue a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from James Madison University. Teresa continued her education receiving her Gifted endorsement from UVA, her Masters in Administration from James Madison University, her Ed Specialist degree from Walden University and was working on her dissertation for her Doctor of Education. She was employed by Highland County School for 40 years. She taught first, second and third grade before becoming principal in 2003.

Teresa's caring spirit and generous heart could be felt by all who knew her. She had a special gift for not only seeing the good in people but bringing out the best in them. Teresa was selfless and put others first. She was fun loving, outgoing and vivacious. She was an example to so many and a shining light to all who knew her. Teresa knew every student by name who came through the elementary school and loved them all as her own.

Teresa was a loving aunt to her niece Allyson and husband Brent and her nephew Charlie.

Teresa is survived by her sister Wendi B True (Melissa Maynard), step brother Wayne Lotts, step sister Sherry Gaylor, and constant companion and fur baby, Rudy. She was blessed to have two extra special friends Patricia Chapman and Tamara Campbell.

Anyone who knew Teresa, knew that she was incredibly kind hearted. She had an immense passion for her work and was always a source of positivity. Teresa's family and friends will miss her more than words can say.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 20, 2021 in the Highland County Elementary School Gym at 3pm and Sunday, November 21, 2021 at 3pm at Coffman Funeral Home. Family is requesting that masks or face coverings be worn. Family will receive friends before the service on Saturday and after the service on Sunday. Teresa's favorite color was yellow, so we encourage you to wear yellow or a bright color to the service.

Active Pallbearers will be Charlie True, Brent Saufley, Alan Puffenbarger, Gary Lane, Harold and Dustin Chapman, Randy Hamlet and Mike True.

Honorary Pallbearers will be current and past teachers of Highland Elementary School.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to the Teresa Blum Scholarship Fund c/o Cornerstone Wealth Advisors, 1904 Jefferson Highway, Fishersville, Virginia 22939.

Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Drive in Staunton is in charge of her arrangements.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.coffmanfuneralhome.net