William Eppler Terry

William Eppler Terry passed away on October 2, 2017, at his home in White Oak, Texas, surrounded by family. Born February 11, 1922, in Cisco, Texas, to Thomas Morell Terry and Zora Ether Terry. “Bill” was raised in Cisco, before joining the Navy in 1940. Stationed at Pearl Harbor, Bill survived the “day of infamy” on Dec. 7, 1941, and served with distinction throughout WWII. He married his first love, Louise White, in 1945, who in 1960 preceded him in death. Bill later married Marlena Morine Raley in 1961, with whom he enjoyed 52 years of abiding love and affection. – “They were as one.”

As a long-time resident of White Oak, Bill served many years as an active member of White Oak United Methodist Church, was 32nd degree Mason and Shriner, an avid bowler, and a Meals on Wheels volunteer.

"Grandpa’s" most treasured times were when he was surrounded by his family camping at Lake O’ The Pines or playing card games, where he routinely defeated everyone.

He is survived by his brother, Tommy Terry; sister, Dorothy Fox; His surviving children are James Hughey Smith (Joanne), Patricia Owens (Raymond), Gary Smith (Joy), Richard Smith (Sheron), Stephen Terry (Susan), Barbara Boone and Mollie Upton (Paul).

He is also survived by 17 grandchildren, Danny Terry, Joey Terry, Rusty Terry, E.J. Smith, Krystal Smith, Kelli Bean, Homer Owens, Jason Owens, Miranda Croft, Jeb Smith, Neely Smith, Billy Terry, Cody Terry, Mandy Munoz, Dustin Upton, Dexter Upton and Dakota Upton; and more than 30 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a son, Allen Michael Terry; his first wife, Louise White; second wife, Marlena Raley Smith; sister, Wanda Ervin; and grandson, James Hughey Smith, Jr.

His family would like to thank his special caregivers, Pui Mathis, Ket Bolton, Diane Allen, and Joann Smith for the excellent, loving care given to Bill in his last years.

We will miss him greatly, cherish our memories of him, and remember his love for us. With men like him, it’s no wonder they were called “the greatest generation.”

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Bill’s name to the Highway 80 Rescue Mission, 3117 W. Marshall Avenue, Longview, TX 75604, or to White Oak United Methodist Church, 503 Center Street, White Oak, TX 75693.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Friday, October 6, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Croley Funeral Home in Gladewater. His funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 7, at 10:00 am at White Oak United Methodist Church.