Wesley Terry

Wesley (W.A.) Terry, 87, departed this life peacefully Monday, January 29, 2007, surrounded by his loving family in Waco at the St. Catherine's Center, Providence Park.

Graveside services will be 2 P.M., Thursday, February 1, at Waco Memorial Park, officiated by Deacon Greg George. Masonic graveside services will follow.

Visitation will be from 6-8 P.M., on Wednesday, January 31, at OakCrest Funeral Home, 4520 Bosque Blvd., in Waco.

Mr. Terry was born on December 17, 1919, in Stigler, OK, to Hubert Harvey and Beulah Cecil (Fowler) Terry. After completing his education, Mr. Terry served as a corporal in the U.S. Army. While serving in the military, Mr. Terry married Mella Marie Ferrill on April 19, 1941. Following his discharge, Mr. Terry worked for the MK&T railroad for a short time before establishing his own business, W.A. Terry Co., Inc., in 1946. He was active in the business for 59 years, and his legacy is carried on by his son, Bob Terry.

A lifetime member of J.H. Gurley Lodge No. 337, where he was active for over 50 years, Mr. Terry was also a York Rite and Scottish Rite Mason. For over 50 years, he was a member of the Karem Shrine Temple, where he served as a member of the director's staff. For over 20 years, Mr. Terry held various offices in the Motor Patrol, including President. He was also a member of the Royal Order of Jesters.

Mr. Terry was instrumental in the inception, formation, and growth of the Texas Independent Automobile Dealers Association (TIADA). He served as President of TIADA in 1960 and was on the Board of Directors for over 15 years after that.

He was a member of the Western Heights Baptist Church.

Mr. Terry was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He loved watching football and was a fervent Dallas Cowboys fan. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife and playing games with his grandchildren.

Preceding Mr. Terry in death were his parents; brother, Boyd Eugene Terry; sister, Wanda Wernley; daughter, Dixie Marie Green; and many close friends.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mella Terry of Woodway; son and daughter-in-law, Bob and Dorothy Terry of Woodway; and daughter Betty Staton of Waco. Mr. Terry leaves behind six cherished grandchildren: Gary Dees and wife, Stacey, of Corsicana, TX; Kenneth Green and wife, Robin, of Thrall, TX; Terry Staton of Stephenville, TX; Wesley Staton of Georgetown, TX; and Natalie and Allison Terry of Woodway. Mr. Terry is also survived by four beloved great-grandchildren: Taylor and Riley Dees, Kyle Green, and Lena Staton.

The family thanks the staff at St. Catherine's Center for their dedication and support.

Memorials may be made to Providence Hospice (6901 Medical Parkway, Waco, TX 76712)