Mercedes Terry

Mercedes Riley Terry, artist, intellectual, designer, and friend, entered eternal rest after a long, happy, and meaningful life devoted to her family and her faith. Mercedes was born in Jacksonville, FL to Willa Mae Allison and Otis Riley, and was their only child. She graduated at age 15 from Stanton HS and then enrolled at Florida A &M College where she received a bachelor's degree in History and Social Studies. She then moved to Atlanta where she received a master's degree in Library Sciences from Atlanta University. Upon moving to Houston, she attended Texas Southern University, where she received a master's degree in administration. Employed by the HISD as a librarian for most of her career, she worked in several high schools and had a tremendous influence on both her students and professional colleagues. After retirement, she was in the inaugural docent class at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, where she enjoyed leading school groups through the exhibits for 13 years. Mercedes herself was a talented painter, and her art graces many venues. She combined her advanced sewing and shopping talents to always be amongst the "best dressed" for a variety of occasions. A fabulous chef, she made elaborate meals that were enjoyed by her family and her bridge club on a regular basis. Mercedes also held a real estate license and owned and managed several investment properties as an avocation. Having an exceptionally keen mind and quick wit, she read numerous newspapers and magazines daily, and was able to discuss politics, education, and medicine with ease. Mercedes was married for 38 years to Robert J. Terry, PhD, a professor of biology and interim president of Texas Southern University, until his death in 1987. She is survived by her daughter Willa Michelle Terry, MD, son-in-law Ken Burton, and three grandchildren, Phil, Riley, and Allison Burton, all of whom she deeply loved, and who respected and adored her in return. She is also survived by her devoted nephew by choice, David W. Booker, who provided constant care and companionship for the last decade of her life, as well as a host of attentive extended family and friends. Mercedes was a faithful member of St. Mary of the Purification Catholic Church, a golden soror of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority , and a platinum member of the Houston Chapter of the Links Inc. Mercedes was also a member of the national foundation board of the Sigma Pi Phi Boule' Fraternity.