Dominic Michael Terry

“Dom” as most called him, was born in Baltimore, Maryland on September 17th, 1985 a son to both Elizabeth Kirkland and James Terry Sr.

Dominic is Survived by His Mother Elizabeth Kirkland; Father James Terry Sr.; Brothers, James Terry and Kyle McGaunn; step-father Paul McGaunn; Sister in law Karen Terry; Nieces Kayla, Alyssa, and Nephew Jacob Terry. He also leaves behind Grandmother “Nan Nan” Patricia Sweeney, as well as Aunts, Frances Kirkland, Marylynn Schwartz, Tricia Steinberg, Jessica Francis, Connie Terry, Angela Snook; Uncles, James Snook, Sherman Schwartz, Boris Steinberg, James Francis, Dominic Terry;  Cousins Jimmy Francis, Anthony Francis, Michael Terry, Emily Schwartz, Rachel Schwartz, Madeline Steinberg, Julia Steinberg, Aaron Steinberg, Gabriel Snook, Emma Snook.

Dom was a playful and gentle soul, whose presence was always felt by those who knew him well. He was a people pleaser, and always did what he could to help others. Dom was a dreamer, and always the hardest worker in the room. Dom was passionate, courageous, and talented, he lived most of his life with confidence and great character. He loved to travel and excelled at almost anything he did.

Most of his young career he woke daily at 4am to sharpen his craft of being a horseman. The definition of a “True Horseman”, is a person that possesses the ability to have a deep understanding of what the horses’ needs are, at all times. They have a feel and balance like no other. They can listen to the horses and be able to communicate with them very clearly.  A true horseman has compassion and a deeper bond with the animal. Not only was he a horseman, but he was able to bring out the best in every horse he rode. At no time has that been more proving, than 2009. Early on in his career, Dom had several opportunities to prove himself, and he did just that, earning him the opportunity to ride the greatest Female horse of all time, Rachel Alexandra. With a Mother and Father both retired jockeys, it was clear that his genetics and work ethic made Dominic a truly exceptional rider. He rode Rachel every morning and quickly became the foundation of her success. Rachel Alexandra was entered into the Hall of Fame in 2016, won the Eclipse award for the horse of the year 2009, as well as becoming a champion 3-year-old Filly in 2009, and winner of the 2009 Preakness Stakes. It was no doubt, that Dom had a deep relationship with Rachel, and he was truly proud to be a part of her life.

After retiring as a horseman, Dom went on to build a plumbing business, and successfully became a well-known plumber in South Florida.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, November 1st, 2020. The celebration of life will be held at his brother and sister in law’s home located at 5800 SW 196 Lane, Southwest Ranches FL, 33332.  In order to comply with social distancing, we will welcome close friends in the morning hours from 9am-11am, and family members from 12pm to 4pm. Please wear a mask. We will also have a virtual viewing of the celebration for family members unable to attend. Zoom meeting link will be provided, please text Karen on her cell for the link 954-376-9652.