Terry Richard Smith April 19, 1939 – July 24, 2019
Terry Richard Smith, age 80 of Haslett passed away peacefully on Wednesday July 24, 2019, at McClaren Hospital in Lansing. He was surrounded by those he loved and received by our Lord.
Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Marie Smith, siblings Bill Smith, Don Smith, and Judy Madden, his loving first wife Joyce (née Ezray) Smith, and his granddaughter Meghan Kelly. He is survived by his loving wife Charleen (née Duncan) Smith, daughter Stacy Turke of Haslett, son Barry Smith of West Chicago, step-daughter Cheri (Jim) Kelly of Buffalo Wyoming, step-son Steven Bolin (Toni) of Lansing, and step-son David Schneider of Lansing. Terry was “Papa” to 5 grandchildren; 4 of whom survive him: Shani Turke (Adam Steinfield), Miah Turke, Joseph Kelly, and Laura Kelly. Terry became a Great “Papa” to Ezra Steinfield-Turke on July 1st. Terry is also survived by his sister Marilyn (Ross) Carr of Toledo Ohio, many nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.
Terry graduated from Lansing Eastern High School in 1957, and retired after 42 years within the trucking industry. While his employment kept him busy, it was his work within Lutheran Marriage Encounter and St Paul Lutheran Church in East Lansing that held his heart. He lived a faithful life that was fueled by his love for his lord and savior Jesus Christ, and the commands he made, in particular, those to love and care for others. Terry took this very seriously, supporting both LME and St Paul in many capacities, and always with a servant heart. Terry was also deeply committed to the work of the American Red Cross, donating blood beginning in 1972, and coordinating blood drives at St Paul for 12 years. He also dearly loved Mickey Mouse, and participated in the Disney Collectible community for many, many years.
What Terry did in life was important and a testimony to his faith and persistence, but it was who Terry was that will be his lasting legacy. He never met a stranger. He listened and remembered and supported. He led with his heart and his megawatt smile, and he made sure to say what he needed and wanted to say; nothing went unsaid.
His response, always, when his family said “I love you” to him, was to say “I love you more.” But he didn’t need to say it because we already knew.
Terry will be remembered by family and friends on Saturday July 27 2019 at 11:00 am at St Paul Lutheran Church in East Lansing (3383 Lake Lansing Road, 48823). A light meal will follow.
For those desiring, donations may be made in Terry’s name may be made to St Paul Lutheran Church, to help further the ministry and outreach to which Terry was committed.
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