Teru F. Hendrey, 98, of Edwardsburg, MI passed away on Christmas Day at Greenleaf Health Campus.

Teru was born in Formosa, Taipei aka Taiwan, on September 13, 1927.

She is preceded in death by 2 brothers and 3 sisters; and granddaughter, Maranda Lee Smith.

Teru is survived by her daughter, Dee Dee (Terry) Smith of Edwardsburg, MI; grandson, Andrew Smith (Brandy) and great grandchildren, Justice, Braylee and Bradlee; and 2 sisters in Japan.

She retired from Miles/Bayer Laboratory as a business translator in the media library and was a savvy investor, involved in a small investment club with coworkers. Teru was a sword expert and authenticated swords from the Japanese feudal era for her former boss Dr. W.A. Compton. She had also obtained a certificate in classical Japanese dance.

Teru spent her later years in the studies of Okinawan Karate, traditional weapons, and Tai Chi. During her over thirty year career, she attained the rank of eighth degree in karate and sixth degree in kobudo (weaponry), and was given the official title of "Hanshi" from her master, Tadashi Yamashita. Throughout her own studies, she taught and influenced hundreds of people across the country, sharing her knowledge and passion for the martial arts life. In the 90's and early 2000's she led the Okinawan Budo Institute in Elkhart. After her official retirement in 2010. She continued teaching well into her 90's at Suibukan of Indiana in South Bend.

In the last 18 months of her life she made many wonderful new friends and caregivers whom she loved. Her remaining family would like to acknowledge and thank those who cared for her.

Her discipline, integrity, independence and pride will highlight her as a woman of strong character, always.

Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, IN 46514 is assisting the family.

For those that wish to send a condolence or share a memory may do so at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.