William Terrance “Terry” King

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Visitation:
Celebration of Life
Friday, March 29, 2024
4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
Verando Bistro and Bar - Avon
32045 Detroit Rd
Avon, Ohio 44011

On February 14, 2024, the world lost one of the best human beings to ever live. William Terrance “Terry” King, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, great uncle, teacher, coach, mentor, and friend to many passed away surrounded by loved ones after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Perhaps his passing on Valentine’s Day was a testament to the very big heart he shared with all who knew, admired, and loved him even while so many hearts are breaking due to this immense loss. 

Terry was born on January 7, 1948, in Willard, Ohio to loving parents Bill and Alice Faye King. He and sister, Janet, grew up laughing and making those around them laugh, too. After graduating from Willard High School, Terry attended Ohio University where he earned a degree in secondary education, but more important he met the love of his life, Sue, with whom he shared 53 amazing years. He also earned his Master’s in School Administration from Ashland University. He was a teacher and coach at Berkshire High School and Willard High School and ended his career at Wellington High School as principal. 

Terry touched the lives of so many through his larger-than-life personality, his dedication to coaching and mentoring thousands of young athletes, and most important his infectious smile, which was ever-present no matter what challenge he faced. If you were in his circle, which was huge, then you probably thought you were his “best friend,” and you likely received an inspirational text frequently.  

He found joy in the simplest of things and he truly lived life to the fullest. First and foremost, Terry loved his family and friends, but he was also passionate about rooting for the Buckeyes, Browns and Guardians, listening to great music, like the Rolling Stones, Tom Petty or Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, sipping cold brews with his golfing buds after a great round, playing Euchre with Sue, family, and friends, and certainly watching his beloved grandkids play sports each week. 

He is survived by his official “best friend” Sue, his children, their spouses, and grandchildren; son Bill King (Stephanie), Addison, Keegan, and Keira; daughter Kerry Walukas (Jeff), Henry and William. In addition, he is survived by his sister Janet Green, husband Dick, sister-in-law Patti Luchette, sister-in-law Laurie Hedrick and husband Jim, brother-in-law Timm Jamieson and wife Ginger and many nieces, nephews, great nephews, great nieces, and countless friends. 

Terry’s favorite song was Southern Cross by Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, and the refrain is a fitting tribute to him:

“Think about how many times I have fallen.

Spirits are using me; larger voices callin.’

What heaven brought you and me cannot be forgotten.

I have been around the world, 

lookin’ for that woman-girl

Who knows love can endure. 

And you know it will. 

And you know it will.”

To honor his life and legacy, the family would be grateful for donations to any of the following organizations:

The Berkshire Athletic Boosters Club, via check to PO Box 291, Burton, Ohio 44021 or Venmo @Berkshire-Boosters.
The Willard High School football program, via check to the Willard School Board Office (please note on check it is for the football program) at 123 Whisler Drive, Williard, Ohio 44890.
The Hospice of the Western Reserve – Medina, via check to 5075 Windfall Road, Medina, Ohio 44256. 

A celebration of life … “Friday Night Lights” … will be held in Terry’s honor on Friday, March 29 from 4-7 p.m. at the Veranda Bistro and Bar – Avon, 32045 Detroit Road, Avon, Ohio 44011. Appetizers and beverages will be served. Please come and celebrate his life with us.