Obituary of Merle E. Terry Sr.

Merle E. Terry, Sr., 85, of Ashville, NY passed away Monday, Feb. 19, 2024 in Corry Manor after a brief illness. Born in Jamestown on April 29, 1938 to the late Irvin and Lydia Wilson Terry, he was a 1957 graduate of Southwestern Central School. Merle worked for Davidson's Family Restaurant, Premium Tool & Die, Cummins Engine, and finally for the Post Journal retiring after 18 years. He then went on to enjoy his free time working on his many projects, "fixing things", and taking care of his hobby farm animals. He worked part time for the Green Thumb through the NYS Conservation Dept. and was a member of the Lakewood Rod & Gun Club. Merle is survived by his wife of 63 years, Paula Kay Nicklas Terry; and five children: Beth (Todd) Smith, Roxanne (Dan) Young and Grant (Marissa) Terry, all of Panama, Merle (Leah) Terry, Jr. of Erie, PA, and Dean (Sandra) Terry of Chandler, AZ. Also surviving are five grandchildren: Lindsey (Will) Jackson of Bear Lake, PA, Taylor Young (Dennis Roberts) of Jamestown, Colin Terry (Summer Hannold) of Ashville, NY, Bryce Terry of Chandler, AZ, and Bode Terry of Erie, PA; four great-grandchildren and three sisters. He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as two brothers and a sister. A private family service will be held. Visitation will not be observed. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any memorials be made to Corry Manor as a thank you for all the help that they have been.