Terrell Owen Cornelius Hart

Obituary For Terrell Owen Cornelius Hart

Actor, Comedian, Painter, Photographer, Podcaster, Writer, Creator, Storyteller

Terrell Owen Cornelius Hart burst into this world on May 9, 1983 in his beloved hometown of Valdosta, GA. Issa and Katherine Hart were thrilled to welcome a son after having a daughter, Carmen, a little less than 3 years earlier. Terrell was the typical mischievous little boy and annoying little brother. He was a theatre kid and loved to perform at home and at school. He graduated from Valdosta High School with the Class of 2001.

After high school, Terrell attended the University of Georgia in Athens, GA and majored in Theater with a minor in Literature. Terrell’s first performance at UGA was in “A Star Ain’t Nothin’ but a Hole in Heaven,” with the UGA Black Theatrical Ensemble, typically called BTE. Terrell went on to serve BTE as Vice-President, Treasurer, and Historian. The UGA Drama Department was another major part of his college experience. Terrell loved to sing and was cast in two musicals, “Violet” and “Pippin,” and was also in “A Christmas Carol,” “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” and the lead in “The Birds.” Terrell got a chance to flex his muscles as director of BTE’s Spring 2003 show “The Colored Museum.”

Terrell also found joy in working with youth. The summer after his Sophomore year of college, Terrell found a new summer home at Camp Pontiac, a children’s sleep away camp in Copake, NY. From that point on, Terrell spent numerous summers at Camp Pontiac working on the boys side, directing campers in the theatre and making many life long memories! While at Camp Pontiac, Terrell was awarded Counselor of the Year and was made a color war officer. Terrell graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and film studies with a minor in literature in 2005.

After graduation, Terrell set his sights on breaking into professional acting. He toured with Theatre IV, a children’s theatre company based in Virginia. Terrell served as road manager and performed in “Pocahontas,” “The Tailor of Gloucester,” and “The Buffalo Soldiers.” Next, he took his talents to New York City. He spent 16 years in New York and Terrell fully immersed himself into auditions and casting calls. His biggest accomplishments include working as an extra on “Law and Order” in the early years, being a part of a Warby Parker commercial, and working as a production assistant for other commercials. As a comedian, Terrell performed in some of New York’s best comedy clubs. Much of his comedy focused on amusing moments during his childhood or with family and friends.

Terrell was a prolific creator. Photos, poems, funny social media posts, and encouraging quotes were all a part of his gift to the world around him. He also frequently painted, and even hand-crafted items in his hyper-creative mode. Terrell was always taking pictures to capture sweet moments and had a critical eye to make photos pop. His podcast, Hart Murmur, is still available on Apple. Terrell was also a cat-dad to his treasured orange cat, Sir Jasper Longshanks III. Jasper was his constant companion for many years until Jasper transitioned.

Terrell lived his life unapologetically. His heart was Valdosta-made but he was a son of New York City. He was a force and livened up any gathering. He is sorely missed by all who had the great pleasure to know him and be known by him.

Terrell is survived by his mother and father, Katherine & Issa Hart, his sister, Carmen Hart Salmon, his nephew and two nieces - Eli, Isla and Adia Salmon, his two best friends, Hilary Carruthers and Josh Boepple, a host of cousins, aunts, uncles and a myriad of friends.

Memorial service for Mr. Terrell Owen Cornelius Hart will be held, Friday October 20, at 11:00 A. M. at New Hope Baptist Church Rev. Hopkins is the pastor and Rev. Norman Edwards will officiate. The family will receive friends Thursday, October 19, from 5:00 P.M. til 7:00 P.M at Scott and Roberts Mortuary. If you are unable to attend the service, please join us on scottandrobertsmortuary.com to witness Mr. Hart's service. If you are attending the service, masks will be required at the church. Blessings.