Jennifer B. Elgin

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jennifer Balentine Elgin, 52, who left us in the early hours of February 20, 2025, at her home in Greenville, South Carolina. Jennifer was surrounded by her loving husband, Terry, and their daughter, Lily, as she peacefully crossed into the next life, healed and free from pain.

Jennifer is survived by her loving husband, Terry Elgin; their daughter, Lily Elgin; her father and stepmother, Michael and Sarah Ann Balentine; brother, Rudy Staples; step sister and step brother Jennifer Bailey and Thomas Bailey; mother-in-law, Barbara Elgin; brother-in-law and his wife, Tobey and Stephanie Elgin; sister-in-law, Tammie Raushenberger; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother, Debbie Balentine; brother, Jason Buchanon; father-in-law, Doyce Elgin; and brother-in-law, Scott Raushenberger.

Born on July 15, 1972, in Greenville, Jennifer was a woman of deep faith, resilience, and grace. She graduated from Wade Hampton High School in 1991 and went on to further her education at Spartanburg Methodist, Clemson University, and finally, USC Upstate, where she earned her Bachelors of Science in Accounting in 2009. Although Jennifer’s degree was from USC, she was always a Tiger at heart.

Jennifer had an extraordinary gift with numbers, which led to a successful career early in her married life. However, her greatest joy and dedication were to her family. Jennifer met the love of her life, Terry Elgin, in May 1999, and they married on March 17, 2001, in St. Thomas, USVI, surrounded by friends she considered family. She was an incredibly loving wife to Terry and a fiercely devoted mother to Lily. As a mother, she was a true "mama bear," always protecting, guiding, and loving her daughter with all her heart.

Jennifer’s nurturing spirit extended to her friends as well. Her loyalty and unwavering support were a blessing to all who had the privilege of calling her a friend. Whether she was sending a prayer, offering kind words of encouragement, or simply being a shoulder to lean on, Jennifer’s presence was a constant source of strength.

Jennifer found peace in the simple things in life. She cherished time spent on her porch, reading devotionals while feeding peanuts to the squirrels and birds that visited her daily. Her appreciation for nature and the beauty of the world around her reflected her kind and loving heart. Jennifer’s deep love for her family, her faith, and her gentle spirit left an indelible mark on everyone she knew.

Though Jennifer’s health challenges became more difficult over time, she faced each one with remarkable strength and determination. In the end, her body could no longer bear the weight of her struggles, but her spirit remains with us, a testament to her faith and perseverance.

A funeral service to honor Jennifer’s life will be held on March 9, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, located at 7 Shannon Drive, Greenville, SC 29615.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Jennifer's memory to Aldersgate United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.