William Terry

William Ronald Terry

April 20, 1947 to November 25, 2021

William “Will/Bill” Terry was born April 20, 1947 in Gary, Indiana to Dalton and Matilda Terry. He spent his childhood and youth in Hobart, IN, where he was active in baseball, basketball, and football. William dreamed of having a military career and enlisted in the US Army at age 18. He began his service in the Vietnam War at age 19. He quickly rose to an Infantry Advisor E6 Staff Sergeant, served as a combat infantryman, and was part of the special operations unit MACV team 98 Black Tiger Commandos. Will received numerous honors during his service, including a purple heart and bronze star. His favorite memory was being assigned to escort and protect comedian and singer Martha Raye on the drive from the airport to command headquarters for her performance.

William married the love of his life, Patricia Terry, on May 6, 1977. Together they opened a successful bakery, traveled the world, danced nights away, and raised Rhodesian ridgebacks. Will always thought of Trish as out of his league and made sure to tell everyone how lucky he was. When Trish passed, he was quoted in a newspaper article as saying, “she was my everything”.

Will led a productive career as a life and health insurance underwriter beginning at Prudential Insurance in Hobart, IN. He moved across the country with Trish, before retiring in Austin, TX. Family, friends, co-workers, and care givers will never forget his wit and excitement for conversation. William was gifted in easing discomfort and making life lighter with a quick joke or amusing gesture.

William is preceded in death by his wife Patricia, father Dalton, and brother Dennis. He is survived by his mother Matilda, brother James and wife Denise (niece Jessica), brother Kenneth and wife Diane, and numerous aunts and cousins.

All expressions of sympathy welcome. Memorial contributions may also be made to William’s favorite charity, Veterans of America.