Michelle LaVonne Terry Tollefsen Datino

Michelle LaVonne Terry Tollefsen Datino also known as “River” to many, took her last breath here on Earth on December 11, 2025. In Michelle’s final moments, she was not alone. She was spoken to with love and remembrance. She was reminded of a childhood memory she carried close to her heart-swinging high on a swing set, seeing Jesus in the sky clear as day, tell her to slow down she was going so high. That moment stayed with her throughout life. And, in the end, she was told it was time to fly as high as she could, to jump, and to be caught. She did. She was finally held by the Heavenly Father who has always been watching over her and waiting with boundless unconditional love. Michelle was a mother, sister, daughter, and friend, and a woman whose life held both deep love and deep struggle. She loved her children dearly and gave life, connection, and lessons that will continue long after her passing. Her children will carry forward not only her memory, but the strength forged through truth, honesty, and resilience. Her life was also marked by battles with mental illness and alcoholism that affected her health, her safety, and her relationships. These struggles do not define her, but they are part of her story. In sharing this truth, her family hopes others who are suffering will seek help, knowing that their future selves and families depend on it. Michelle is survived by her children, Heaven, Seth and Chance; a father Michael Terry, Stepmom Ramona, and two sisters, Tammy and Laura, who will miss her deeply. She was predeceased by her mother, Debra; her brother, Jr; and her nephew, Dillon. She will not witness many milestones here on Earth – graduations, weddings, the ordinary mornings and growing years – but her presence will be felt in different ways, carried in memory, in resolve, and in love. In honor of Michelle’s life and memory, a GoFundMe page has been created to raise funds for a memorial bench to be placed in her name – a place to rest, reflection, and remembrance. Any remaining donated funds will go directly to support her youngest son, Chance. A memorial service celebrating Michelle’s life will be held in the spring. Details will be shared as they become available. To her children, thank you for your honesty, courage, and your refusal to repeat what hurt you. To Michelle, thank you for the life you gave, the lessons you taught, and the path that clarified another way forward. Fly high Michelle. May you finally rest in peace.