Terry Smith

May 6, 1935 ~ July 16, 2023

Terry C. Smith, 88, born in Gary, Indiana, died peacefully on July 16, 2023. He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Marilyn Smith of Naples, FL; by his loving children; Michael Phillips, daughter-in-law Lisa of West Des Moines, IA, Holly (Phillips) Caskey, son-in-law, Mark of Maplewood, MN, and five grandchildren, David Cook, Alexandria Caskey, Daniel Cook, Katie Phillips, and Jacob Phillips. Terry was predeceased by his parents and two older brothers, Hugh, and Roy Smith.

After his graduation from Graceland College, a two-year college at the time, he continued his higher education and graduated from the University of Indiana. Terry followed in his brother's footsteps and joined the Navy, completing Officer Candidate school and was commissioned as an Ensign. He completed his active duty as a Lt. Commander and continued in the Naval Reserves for several more years. He has great memories of his experiences in the Navy and the lifelong friends that he made during active duty as well as the Reserves.

Following active duty in the Navy, he attended Law school, completing his first year at Kansas University and finishing his law degree at the University of Minnesota. Brilliant, and highly accomplished, Terry applied himself to his law practice and practiced law in the Twin Cities for 33 years. He then moved to the Kansas City area to work for the Community of Christ Church in the Estate and Financial Planning office. He was admitted to the Missouri Bar Association and in addition to his contributions to the E&FP office, provided his legal expertise in real estate law for the church's legal department.

Terry was an avid pilot. While in the Naval Reserves, he obtained his private pilot's license and was a proficient instrument and multi-engine rated pilot, taking the family on several vacations, as well as traveling to court appearances in several states while practicing law. He flew every chance he got. After retiring, he wrote "Flights of Fancy" based on entries in his flight log books, mainly for the benefit of family and friends. He was an excellent writer and the chapters he wrote brought us lots of laughs and great memories.

Terry was a lifetime member of the Community of Christ church and was an ordained Evangelist. While living in the Twin Cities, he and his wife, Marilyn, were extremely active with the youth of the Minnesota District. Terry served as pastor of the St. Paul congregation and as District President. Upon retirement from the church, he and Marilyn moved to Naples, FL, where they were active members of the Ft. Myers congregation of the Community of Christ church. In his priesthood role, and his role in the Estate Planning office, he attended many church gatherings over the years and provided education and ministry across the country. He is beloved by many within the church and his kindness, compassion, wit, intelligence, speaking and mentoring qualities will be greatly missed.

Love of his family, friends, and a desire to be of service to his church were always the essential features of his character. He cherished his relationships and despite his many interests and accomplishments, Terry's true love and commitment were reserved for his family, his church, and Graceland University. His sense of humor, humility, generosity, loyalty, and devotion benefited everyone he knew.

A memorial service and celebration of his life for family and close friends will be held at the Ft. Myers, Community of Christ Church at date to be determined.

Printable Copy

7/27/23