Terry R. David

Terry was born in East St. Louis, IL June 29, 1943 the son of Ralph and Ruth (Gassner) David. He was preceded in death by both parents, a brother-Gary David of Belleville, Illinois and daughter in law Carrie David (Risdon) of Springfield, Illinois.

Surviving is his former spouse of 45 years Saundra David (Kula) of Springfield, IL; three children: Andrew David, Matthew David (Laurel Bretz) and Gabrielle David all of Springfield, IL, two granddaughters, Lily and Piper David, two sisters; Kathleen Johnson of Navarre, FL and Mary (Charles) Klumb of St. Louis, MO, his brother, Dale David of Bellville, IL several nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

Terry retired from the State of Illinois Board of Education after several decades of service in the Special Education Unit. His career included roles as a teacher, principal and football coach-his true passion.

Terry was employed as a teacher at St. Regis Parochial School in East St. Louis from 1966-1972. From 1971-1972 he served as the acting principal and administrator. He coached football for the Holy Angels grade school boys to four straight playoff championships. He left this position to attend seminary school at Immaculate Conception Seminary in St. Joseph, Missouri. Although he fancied himself a priest, he soon realized that the requirements of the position conflicted with his lifestyle and returned to East St. Louis.

He was an avid participant in the Civil Right’s movement of the 1960’s and was proud to have been arrested during a protest in Sangamon County in 1969. His mugshot was proudly displayed in his home. During his teaching career, he taught mostly African-American youth and maintained connections to several of his former students. Class pictures and letters from them were a prized possession. He enjoyed impacting youth at every stage of his life. He also was a boy scout leader and helped run camps annually in the summers.

Terry would marry Saundra Kula in 1973 and had 3 children. In 1989 the family moved to Rochester, Illinois. He maintained an active role in their education and sports endeavors throughout their childhood and regularly attended every practice, game and fundraiser. He continued his involvement in the Rochester community throughout their education and into his retirement when he became head coach of the Rochester JFL, ultimately leading them to Championship in 1998. Being addressed as “Coach” provided him unlimited joy and a sense of admiration-something he thrived on.

Terry loved the woods and his home that was surrounded by them. He spent every morning and evening enjoying the wildlife around him with a cup of coffee and the day’s newspaper. His companions in his later years were his two dogs and they provided him much comfort and joy. His home and land were his castle. He enjoyed a great story, and even more if he was the one telling it. He had a brash and blunt sense of humor and considered himself an unappointed “expert” on every topic. As he would say, “You provide the topic, I’ll provide the expertise”. He was a character and to have met Terry meant that you walked away with a distinct impression, and whether good or bad, he was happy to have made an impact. Everyone who knew him had a “Terry story” or one-liner, and they all were memorable. His motto was “quality or quantity” and that applied to almost everything: people, food, and vices.

He loved doo wop and Motown music of the 1950’s and 60’s. He loved the 4th of July and fireworks. He loved Christmas and worked as the local mall Santa Clause for many years. His favorite part was the pictures of children who had a particularly strong reaction to his role and kept many despite not knowing who the children were, they simply made him smile. He donned a Santa hat most days in December while running errands in his red truck and was delighted when children mistook him for the real article and actively played along.

He was proud of all his children’s accomplishments, but mostly of their character and integrity. Becoming a grandfather to Piper and Lily brought him immense joy and pride. Being called “PaPa” resulted in an immediate demeanor change from his usual gruff and unaffected persona. He became softer, more vulnerable, and brimming with love. He was greatly loved by his parents, his siblings, his spouse and his children and grandchildren. He was rich in friends and family and lived his life on his terms, no matter the consequences. He will be missed by many and remembered by all.

Cremation Rites will be accorded by the Bisch and Son Crematory.

The David family will host a memorial gathering from 2-4 pm Friday, March 4, 2022 at Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, IL

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may direct memorial contributions to the March of Dimes 2060 W Iles Ave D, Springfield, IL 62704 or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105

Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” atwww.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.

Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West. 217-544-5424