He was born on February 4, 1939, in Chicago, IL, the son of Harold and Marguerite (Glade) Lawson. Terry married Shirley A. Gross on April 16, 1965, in Wayne City, IL.
Terry graduated from Virginia High School where he was part of the 1955 champion football team. He proudly served his country in the US Army. Terry retired from Horace Mann as a claims adjuster. He enjoyed boating, working in the yard, cars, and motorcycles. He loved animals, was a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan who loved a good Chicago hot dog, and was a Netflix connoisseur. Terry was known as free-spirited, independent, hard-working, feisty, kind-hearted, and generous. He was a devoted husband, father and the best grandpa and great-grandpa.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Terry is survived by his wife, Shirley A. Lawson of Chatham; daughter, Staci L. (Jerry) Gregory of Springfield; granddaughter, Alexis (fiancé, Paul Appel) Lawson; great-grandchild, Evelyn (Evie) Appel; and half-sisters, Cindi (Dave) Hitchcock of O’Fallon, MO and Susan Welge of Great Meadows, NY.
Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.
Graveside Service: 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Camp Butler National Cemetery, with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating. Military honors will be provided by the department of defense.
The family will host a celebration of life following the burial on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at The Villas of South Park, 10000 S. Main St., Chatham, in the 4 Seasons room from 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to: National Kidney Foundation-Springfield Area Chapter, APL-Springfield, or Wild Canine Rescue-Springfield.
The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.
