Terrell Thomas Stairs

It is with deep sadness that our family announces the passing of Terrell "Terry" Stairs on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at St. Joseph's Hospital North, Lutz, FL. Terry was surrounded by loved ones as he went to be with his Lord at the age of 75.

Terry was born on May 30, 1949 in Tampa, FL, to Harold and Sara Stairs. He was the youngest of four siblings. His family resided in Tampa and later they purchased ten acres in nature rich Odessa, FL, which became their beloved home and focus for family. He attended Leto High School in Tampa where he graduated in 1967. As part of Leto's first graduating class he also met his beloved wife, Linda Berry Stairs. Their love story began as high school sweethearts and led them to their marriage vows on July 6, 1968, in Odessa, FL. They remained a devoted couple for 56 years only apart due to his passing.

Terry loved his country and honorably served in the U.S. Army during the Viet Nam era. During this time Terry and Linda lived in Fairbanks, Alaska, and learned to enjoy its majestic beauty as well as the frigid temperatures and snow. Upon leaving the military, he worked for the Sherwin Williams Company and later owned and operated his own manufacturing company.

Terry is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Harold Stairs of Plantation, FL, and Vernon Stairs of Tampa, FL. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Linda, their two children Christopher (Terri) Stairs and Kristen (Mark) McCoy, and one sister, Esther (Alan) Berger of Hudson, FL. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren, Kyle (Angie) Campbell, Holli (Andy) Anderson, Loni (Troy) Campbell, Alyssa (Curtis) Howell, Katie (James) Bunner, Alexis McCoy, Makayla (Thomas) Ryan, and Steven Tyler Stairs; one great granddaughter Angelica Flores; along with four great great grandchildren, Andrew Flores, Everly Bunner, Thomas Ryan, Garrett Bunner, and Kehlani Grace Howell.

He took extreme pride in his family and his large extended family and friends.

Terry spent many years involved in the Boy Scouts and was instrumental in helping numerous young men become Eagle Scouts, including his own son. He used his vast knowledge and skills to mentor many young people over the years. He was a Christian and believed in giving respect and kindness to everyone he met in life. He was always the first to lend a hand, give sage advice, or just a friendly chat or words of encouragement. His handyman skills were phenomenal and he would never hesitate to use those talents to help others.

Over the years he fostered his daughter's love for animals from horses to dogs. Many rescue dogs found love and happiness in his home but none more than his beloved Minnie Pearl Stairs (Beagle/American Fox Hound) and clearly daddy's little girl.

Terry's passing has left a hole in our hearts, an empty chair at our family table, and a void in our lives. We were all blessed by the way he chose to live his life.

Terry will have a Celebration of Life on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 2:00PM, for family and friends, at 31906 Sapna Chime Drive, Wesley Chapel, FL 33545. This gathering is posted as an Event through Facebook or you may call 813-304-9024 (Terri Stairs) regarding attendance. In lieu of flowers our family graciously asks that you consider donations to St. Jude's or to the ASPCA.