It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Terence R. Willis, our beloved dad and grandpa, who left this world on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023, for his eternal life in Heaven. He was 75 years old.
Terry was born July 16, 1948, at Crawfordsville, to Juanita Willis. Terry served in the Army both stateside and in Germany from 1967-1969.
After Terry finished in the Army, he returned home to Montgomery County where he found the love of his life in Sally Jean Fine. They were married on July 31, 1971 and had 41 happy years together before her death. He embraced not only his love for Sally, but also for her four children, whom he loved dearly and cared for as if they were his own.
Terry worked for Mid-States Steel and Wire for over 28 years, before retiring from Acuity Brands after over 10 years of service.
Terry had many joys in life. He loved to hunt, search for morel mushrooms, fish, golf with his buddies, and he was the fiercest Euchre player we know. He loved to watch IndyCar, Nascar and NFL, rarely missed a college football or basketball game, followed the Cubs closely - even through the long losing years and had a deep love for old Westerns … especially anything with John Wayne in the starring role (and at the absolute loudest volume level the TV could go!).
Terry was an active member of the American Legion, Fraternal Order of Eagles and Moose Lodge in Crawfordsville. He leaves behind a host of friends at each establishment who will miss him dearly.
Terry’s greatest love of all though was his family. He was so very proud of each and every one of us. His home became our family hub after Sally Jean passed. His grandchildren were constantly in and out of the house. His children often stopped by to eat lunch, grab a beer or drop off a home cooked meal for him. It was a home away from home for all of us, and we will be forever grateful for him always leaving his doors unlocked for us.
Terry was preceded in death by mother Juanita; loving wife Sally; and son Gary West. He is celebrated and honored by his three remaining children, Elizabeth (Jim) Halfhill of Lexington, Kentucky, and Lori (Neal) Miles and Charley (Kathy) West of Crawfordsville; daughter-in-law Phyllis West; sister-in-law Susie Stump; and uncle Tom Willis, all of Crawfordsville. Terry also is deeply loved and mourned by his 10 grandchildren and their spouses, his 24 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren. What a beautiful legacy he is leaving behind!
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Montgomery County Shriners Transportation Fund or the charity of your choice.
Cremation was chosen with a graveside service at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 21 in Oak Hill Cemetery North, Crawfordsville.
Share memories and condolences at www.SandersFuneralCare.com.
