Terry A. Smith

Terry Allan Smith, age 62, of Traverse City, Michigan lovingly entered the arms of Jesus on the morning of November 5, 2024. He was born on September 16, 1962 in Harbor Beach, Michigan to the late William Dennis and Lee Ann (Seidel) Smith. Terry modeled everything that was good in life and believed in truth, integrity, heart and FAMILY most. He was truly “one of the good guys,” as anyone who knew him could attest to. His love, wisdom and lessons will be his lasting legacy. Lindsay was the love of his life, and his five boys were his entire world. Some of his proudest moments were when he was watching his boys excel at doing something that they loved, and more often than not, he was not just a spectator; he was the hands-on type of dad, lovingly coaching and encouraging them all of the way. Whether he was teaching his boys how to throw the perfect spiral, frame a treehouse, or simply cheering on his beloved Lions with his boys and Lindsay at his side, he was happiest when his family was together. Terry often joked that he took the non-traditional path of waiting “just a few extra years,” until he found his perfect soulmate, in Lindsay. They were married on July 25, 2009. Lindsay considers herself the lucky one because together they were able to create the perfect life, with five amazing sons. All anyone ever had to do was watch the looks Terry and Lindsay would exchange, feeding off one another's positive energy, in order to feel the genuine love they shared. They were the perfect dance! Terry's higher education pursuits earned him degrees from Northwestern Michigan College, Central Michigan University, and a master’s degree from Michigan State University. He originally began his professional career in the business and finance industry, before switching paths to education. Feeling burned out from his years in the corporate sector, he wanted to be a part of something that was bigger than himself, and felt a calling to have a meaningful impact on the lives of others. This led him to the career change of education, where he began with TCAPS as a substitute teacher in 1993. In January 1996, he was hired as a middle school math teacher, a position that he held until 2000 when he accepted his first principal's position as a grade level principal for West Junior High. Terry then transitioned to the role of elementary principal in 2004 for Traverse Heights Elementary. Interestingly enough, this is where Terry and Lindsay met and their love story started. In 2008, he accepted a position as principal at Silver Lake Elementary. Terry returned to West Middle School as the lead building principal in 2016 where he remained, until stepping away from his role to spend time with family and attend to his health. In addition to his multiple leadership roles, Terry was also honored to serve as an administrative mentor, president of the TCAA, shared time coordinator, state and federal programs coordinator, and secondary administrator liaison. Terry was well-loved in the district by staff, as well as students. In addition to leaving a legacy at home, his legacy throughout TCAPS will be felt for years to come. Terry is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 15 years cut far too short, Lindsay, his 5 beautiful sons; Jack (13), Brady (13), Bennett (12), Finley (9) and Carson (6) Smith, and his brothers; Tracy (Marci) Smith and James (Linda) Smith. He was preceded in death by his parents; William Dennis and Lee Ann Smith. Friends are welcome to visit with Terry's family on Sunday, November 10 from 2:00-4:00 pm and Monday, November 11 from 10:00 until the time of service at 11:00 am at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St., Traverse City, Michigan 49884. Guests are invited to join us at a luncheon in honor of Terry's life, following the service, which will be held at the Delamar of Traverse City, 615 E. Front Street, Traverse City, in their Dayclub & Lakeshore Terrace and Leelanau One Ballroom. In lieu of flowers, it is the family's wish that donations be considered to assist in offsetting the cost of the Smith boys' college education. .

Terry A. Smith

September 16, 1962 - November 5, 2024