Betty Jean Terry, an angel on Earth, made her transition to glory on March 20th, 2017 lifted by prayers and surrounded by love.

A remarkably faithful servant of God, and a firm believer in Christ, Mrs. Terry was a gentle, generous, and warm soul that touched all of those that had the pleasure and good fortune to know her.

She served her church Fellowship Temple, Bridgeport CT for many years, where the pastor is Elder Andrew Irving, and for more than 60 years, she was the devoted wife to Mr. Frank Terry, who predeceased her. As a consummate example of the goodness of God, she was accepting and loving of all people, she traveled the country, she helped those less fortunate, and encouraged kindness and faith in everyone she met. In short, she was a quintessential Proverbs 31 woman, who forever remained humble and sweet.

Mrs. Terry was born into a large and loving family in Muncie, Indiana, and upon her marriage to Mr. Terry inhabited a number of states throughout the country, including Minnesota, before settling in Bridgeport, Connecticut. She was employed for many years with the A&P Grocery chain, where her professionalism and strong work ethic led to several promotions as she formed lasting connections with co-workers due to her constant walk in love. She treasured her neighborhood and served on her Condominium Association Board for a number of years, helping to make important decisions to enhance the safety and quality of life for her neighbors and the surrounding community.

Second only to her love for God were Mrs. Terry’s family and friends. She leaves to cherish her memory, her beloved daughter, Mrs. Gilda Southerland (Duke); her grandchildren, Frank “Dutch” M. Terry III, Attorney Vincent Southerland (Attny. Ndidi Oriji) and Chad Southerland; her brother, James Woodgett (Garthenia) of Muncie, Indiana; a host of nieces and nephews; a friend who was like a son to her, Herb Wilson and a loving dog named Sasha.

She is being greeted in paradise by her parents, Tracey Woodgett and Louise (Carthell) Woodgett; her husband, Frank Terry; her son, Frank Michael Terry; her son-in-law, Duke Southerland; her sisters, Frances Jordan and Margaret McDugle; her brothers, Tracey Harold Woodgett and Michael Woodgett, and several loving in-laws.

No matter what Mrs. Terry went through or where she was, she made friends and was the center of joy. The beauty of her spirit shined through her warm, loving smile and cheerful, easy laugh. Those around her counted on her as a confidant, adviser, spiritual warrior and friend. She was a wonderful listener, counseling those in need through all hours of the day and night. She was an exemplary daughter, sister, aunt, mother, wife, grandmother, cousin, and friend, embracing each role with an abundance of patience, warmth, and thoughtfulness. When asked, in her final weeks, about her “end-goal” in treating her ailments, her reply was ‘to get to Heaven.’ We celebrate her promotion to the kingdom that she aspired to join, and we will adore her forever. Thank you Mrs. Betty Terry, for your regal and shining example of what true beauty is, tempered by a humility which could only be found in the Bible and grounded in love.  “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” (Proverbs 31:29)

Funeral service will take place on Friday, March 31, 2017 at 12:00 pm at East End Baptist Tabernacle, 548 Central Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06607. Viewing will be held at the church from 11:00am-12:00pm. Burial will be in Mountain Grove Cemetery.