Terry McElreaath

Walhalla, SC – Terry Henson McElreath, 68, of Walhalla, South Carolina, was called to meet his Savior on

October 7, 2022. He was born on December 19, 1953, the son of the late Carl and Olene (Burke) McElreath.

 

Terry is survived by his daughter Sonya Ball and her husband Bryan, daughter Angie White and her husband Jason, and son Derek McElreath and his wife Sarah. He will also be missed by his sister Hilda, who was like a second mother to him, and her husband James. “Pepa” always sent homemade birthday cards to his grandchildren, which consistently arrived just in time to celebrate each milestone. Terry’s grandchildren, all of whom will miss his fun spirit, include Addison Ball, Tanner Ball, Blake Ball, Leah White, Zander White, Sydney White, Luke White, Annabelle White, Charlie White, Emery McElreath, and Scarlett McElreath.

 

Terry was preceded in death by his wife Cathy (Roach), who was the great love of his life. After graduating from Seneca High School, Terry was employed by Phillips Fibers; he was forever thankful for this job because it allowed him to cross paths with Cathy. On their first date, Terry realized that Cathy was the woman he wanted to spend his life with, and they married three months later. Devoted to his wife’s happiness, Terry never failed to celebrate anniversaries with thoughtful gifts and often surprised her with love letters on otherwise ordinary days. When Cathy was diagnosed with cancer, Terry was her faithful companion, demonstrating great love through

his tender acts of service. Following her death, Terry never removed his wedding band, remaining faithful to the love they had shared for the next twenty years of his life.

 

Everyone who knew Terry will fondly recall his big laugh and sparkling smile. He was a faithful Clemson fan who counted down the Saturdays until the beginning of college football season and faithfully wore orange every game day. His children have always been astounded by his ability to fix anything around the house, from cars to plumbing. Terry loved being outside and often sent messages to his family about the beauty of autumn, the joy of watching a family of deer, or the feeding habits of the birds at his feeders. He loved the joy of a new day, always

rising early and thanking God for allowing him to live to see another beautiful morning. His family will miss his countdowns until Christmas, his daily good morning texts, and his astounding memory. Terry was an encouraging father, a talented musician, and a humble servant of Christ who will always be missed.

 

The family will welcome friends to celebrate Terry’s life on Sunday, October 9, from 5:00-6:00 p.m at Davenport Funeral Home. A private family burial will occur at a later date.

 

Terry had several charities which he loved supporting, including St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, St. Joseph’s Indian School, and Paralyzed Veterans of America. Those wishing to honor Terry’s life are asked to make a donation to one of those organizations.