Harry Wilbur Terry

Obituary For Harry Wilbur Terry

Harry Wilbur Terry

Jun 18, 1939

Mar 1, 2024

Harry Wilbur Terry, 84, of Louisville transitioned on Friday, March 1, 2024, at Baptist Health Hospital.

Visitation 11-1 Saturday, March 9, 2024 at W.T. Shumake & Daughters Funeral Home 3815 Newburg Road. Funeral to follow at 1pm.

Harry Wilbur Terry was born June 18, 1939, in Springfield, (Roberson County) Tennessee, to the late Felix Terry, Sr. and Mary E. Norfleet Terry. He was the youngest of their seven children, and all have preceded him in death except for his last remaining sister, Betty Meneese.

After graduating from Bransford High School, he moved to Louisville, Kentucky, where, throughout many years, he established his career, family, and the remainder of life’s many responsibilities and journeys.

He met and married his lifetime wife, Virginia Gardner, on February 20, 1960, and were blessed to remain united 60 years before Virginia passed November 2021. They were the proud parents of four children Dale, Michael (1962-2018), Pamela, and Ricky. Harry was affectionally called “Boobee” by his grandkids, some of whom were born by DNA and others by love, but all were treated equally.

Harry knew work and devoted himself to providing for his family through employment with the Brown Hotel in the early years and finally retired from G.E. after 35 years of employment. His most prized job, however, was driving his Jenny wherever and whenever she asked. Harry loved to dance, his famous dance which had no name, but he could really swing. He also enjoyed singing some of the songs sung by Al Green, Otis Redding as well as various old gospel tunes.

During his life, there were events and activities in which Harry found great enjoyment. He loved to see the morning sunshine while sipping on his coffee although he only took about two sips before pouring out the remainder. U of L was his favorite team, of course. Professional football and college basketball were his favorite sports to watch, and often, when younger, he would attend sports games when he actually knew the person/persons playing.



Harry was known for his LOUD VEHICLES, especially his motorcycle which was tagged “Harry Hippie” when he and others formed the Petersburg Motorcycle Club. The club ceased to exist for a while but was reestablished later by his son Michael and nephews Wendell and William “Terry” Meneese.



In June of 2023, Harry’s nephew, Donnie Williams, coordinated, with the help of Donnie’s brothers and Harry’s sons and nephews, a Pig Feet ‘n Beans celebration” for the men ONLY just for Harry. He talked about how much that day meant to him right up until he passed. Harry Wilbur Terry was a member of Community Missionary Baptist Church.

Sadly, on March 1, 2024, Harry departed this earthly life. He leaves behind to cherish their memories of him: his children Dale, Pamela, Ricky; sister Betty Menesse; sister-in-law, Mattie Lusco; several grandchildren; two great grandchildren; a host of extended family and friends.