Teresa Busby’s story is one of unimaginable loss, unwavering faith, and a commitment to turning pain into purpose. Originally from Sumner, Mississippi and now living in Southaven, Teresa is a devoted mother of three. Her world shifted forever on July 1, 2008, when her young son lost his life in a tragic train accident in Brazil, Mississippi. The circumstances surrounding his death were heartbreaking and completely beyond his control. The actions of his stepmother’s brother, who was under the influence of drugs, created a ripple of pain that Teresa continues to navigate to this day.
As a single mother, she found her strength in God. Her faith became the foundation she needed as she moved through moments of depression, loneliness, and the harsh reality of learning to live without her child.
In December 2022, Teresa released her first book titled Will I Ever Get Married. The book became a beautiful reflection of her honesty and insight and is available on Amazon. Teresa holds a Bachelor’s degree in social work from Mississippi Valley State University and is currently working toward her Master’s degree at Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, with graduation set for May 2026.
Her latest release, A Shadow of a Mother: Broken Pieces, published on November 22, 2025, is her most personal work yet. Teresa opens her heart to readers as she shares the broken pieces of a mother’s grief and the long road toward emotional and spiritual healing. She hopes her story serves as a guide and a source of comfort to anyone who has experienced the devastating loss of a child. Despite the challenges that remain, her faith continues to carry her through every chapter.
Below, Teresa opens up even more in a special about her journey, her purpose, and the power of sharing her truth.
What inspired you to write A Shadow of a Mother: Broken Pieces, and how did you know it was the right time to share this chapter of your life?
The inspiration for writing A Shadow of a Mother: Broken Pieces came from my personal need to work through my own experiences with loss, strength, and healing. I wanted to share the feelings that many people keep inside during hard times, hoping that my story could bring comfort to others going through something similar. I knew it was the right time to share this part of my life after taking time to reflect and make sure I was emotionally ready. When I realized that my story could help others feel understood and supported, I knew it was the right moment to open up and tell it.
In what ways did writing this book help you process the grief and trauma surrounding your son’s passing?
Writing this book became a way for me to face and express the grief and trauma of losing my son. It gave me a safe place to let out my emotions and look more closely at what I was feeling, helping me better understand my own journey through grief. Putting my thoughts into words brought me small moments of comfort and hope, even in the middle of the pain. Through this process, I was able to grow, heal, and find strength during a very difficult time.
What message or feeling do you hope readers take away after finishing your book, especially mothers who may be experiencing similar loss?
After finishing my book, I hope readers, especially mothers who have faced a similar loss, feel comfort, understanding, and hope. I want them to know they are not alone in their grief and that healing can happen through shared stories and inner strength. My goal is for them to walk away with a message of compassion, courage, and a reminder to cherish every moment with their loved ones, even during painful times.
How has your background in social work shaped the way you tell your story and support other families dealing with grief?
My background in social work has helped me understand the emotional and social challenges that come with losing someone. Because of this, I listen carefully, show empathy, and make sure families feel safe and not judged. I focus on hearing their stories, acknowledging their feelings, and building trust. My training also gives me tools and strategies to offer support and resources that meet each family’s needs. In the end, my social work experience helps me approach every family with compassion, understanding, and a focus on helping them stay strong during difficult times.
What has been the most challenging part of sharing such a personal journey, and what has been the most rewarding part since releasing this book?
The most challenging part of sharing such a personal journey has been opening up about my deepest pain and allowing others to see the most vulnerable parts of my life. It can be difficult to relive those moments and share emotions that were once kept private.
The most rewarding part has been hearing from others who say the book helped them feel understood, supported, and less alone. Knowing that my story brings comfort, hope, or healing to someone else makes the entire journey worthwhile.
Teresa Busby stands as a reminder that even in the darkest seasons, healing is possible and purpose can grow from pain. Her story offers comfort to grieving mothers and inspiration to anyone who has ever struggled to find light again. Through her honesty and her faith, Teresa continues to show that broken pieces can still become something powerful and that sharing our stories can spark healing for others as well as ourselves.
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