Terry Lee Carroll passed away peacefully Wednesday morning, March 12th, 2025 surrounded by his family and loved ones. Born on September 9, 1941, in Blue Ridge, Georgia, Terry was a true Southern gentleman with a heart of gold. Only his love for his family could have persuaded him to leave his home of 20+ years in Kernersville, North Carolina to move up north “with all these Yankees” in 2018 to be near his daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren. He lived his remaining years close to them and his dear friends at American House Cedar Lake in Plainfield, IL, a community that embraced and offered him peace, companionship, and comfort.

Terry’s life was a testament to his adventurous spirit and resilience. After retiring from a long and proud career as an ironworker, he embarked on a new journey, earning an Associate in Science degree in Alcohol and Drug Studies, with Honors, from San Jose City College in California — a reflection of his commitment to sobriety and compassion and his desire to help others. He also spent years exploring every corner of the country on his beloved Harley Davidson.

Terry was an avid fan of classic cars, history, the 49ers, reading, bluegrass and western music, biscuits and gravy, and old western movies. He had a sweet tooth for key lime pie, Lorna Doone cookies, and praline ice cream. But nothing matched his love for his family. He was a gentle teddy bear with a kind-hearted nature that had a way of winning over the hearts of everyone he met.

A decades-long proud member of the Masonic fraternity, Terry found camaraderie and shared values of brotherhood and service. His involvement with the Masons was celebrated through a commitment to community, fellowship, charity, and personal growth.

Terry was preceded in death by his wife, Janice, and his father and mother, Ralph and Beth Carroll. He is survived by his loving daughter and son-in-law, Joanna and Matt Ellis-Escobar, his grandchildren, Clay (19) and Maya (16), and his grandpuppy, Lola (1), who will all deeply miss his guidance and love. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. His spirit, kindness, humor, and wisdom will continue to inspire everyone whose path crossed his.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his name to Suncrest Hospice, who provided great comfort and compassion in his final weeks. His family is so grateful.