Dr. Edwin Eugene "Gene" Terry, 81, passed away peacefully at home Georgetown, Texas. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, physician, and man of faith, Gene leaves behind a legacy of compassion, service, and unwavering dedication to both his family and the medical profession.
Born on May 8, 1944, in Bastrop, Texas, Gene was the son of Leslie Eugene Terry and Roberta Sapp Terry. After the early passing of his parents-his father in 1944 and his mother in 1957-Gene was lovingly raised by his Aunt Hilda Sapp and Uncle Kenneth "Boodie" Sapp. Their guidance and care helped shape the values that would define Gene's life: humility, perseverance, and deep-rooted faith.
A proud graduate of Bastrop High School in 1962, Gene went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts in Math from the University of Texas in 1966. He continued his academic journey at Baylor College of Medicine, receiving his Doctor of Medicine degree in 1970. He completed his Internal Medicine Residency and Cardiology Fellowship at the UT Health Science Center in San Antonio between 1971 and 1976.
Gene's career as a Critical Care Cardiologist at Scott and White was marked by distinction and dedication. For two decades, he served as Director of the Hospital Intensive Care Unit and led the hospital's Cardiac Rehabilitation program. His commitment to education was equally profound; as Medical Director of Graduate Medical Education, he played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of physicians. In recognition of his contributions to medicine and education, Gene was honored as a Fellow of Scott and White and named a Texas A&M College of Medicine Emeritus Professor in 2018. He concluded his career at the Temple VA Hospital, where his leadership and compassion left an enduring impact on colleagues and patients alike.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gene found his greatest joy in family life. He shared a loving partnership of nearly 60 years with his wife Susan, with whom he built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and faith. Together they raised three children: Mariah (Jeff) Grazioplene-parents to grandchildren Dylan and Kate; David (Deanna) Terry-parents to Julia and Isobel; and Sarah (Wade) Hussey-parents to Kylie and Shelby. Gene also cherished the bond he shared with cousin Linda (Granville) Frieda Wright, sister-in-law Taddy Maddox, brother-in-law Grady Logan, and held a special place in his heart for Elisa Zambrano from Guayaquil, Ecuador, who became family through her time as an exchange student.
Gene was deeply devoted to each member of his family. Whether planning memorable vacations or attending countless school performances and sporting events, he never missed an opportunity to be present for those he loved. As the family photographer, he captured life's milestones with care and creativity-his legendary slide shows are treasured keepsakes that continue to bring smiles across generations.
An active member of St. Luke Catholic Church in Temple, Gene lived out his faith through quiet devotion and service. Alongside Susan, he led a weekly Bible study group and served as a Prison Minister. He served on the Holy Trinity Catholic High School Board of Directors for 15 years. Gene's belief in education and compassion guided every aspect of his life-from how he treated patients to how he nurtured relationships with friends and family.
Gene embraced simple joys: walks with his dog, spirited tennis matches with longtime friends, cheering on the Texas Longhorns, and most importantly, spending time with his grandchildren. His wisdom, dry sense of humor, gentle presence, and steadfast faithfulness will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.
A Rosary and visitation will be held at St. Luke Catholic Church in Temple on Friday, January 2, 2026, 5-7 pm, followed by a funeral Mass at 11 am, Saturday, January 3, 2026.
Dr. Edwin Eugene "Gene" Terry lived a life defined by service-to his patients, colleagues, church community, and above all else, his beloved family. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire lives rooted in kindness, humility, and love.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of your choice or to Mended Hearts, on line at mended hearts.org or mailed to Mended Hearts 1579 US Highway 19 S, Leesburg, GA, 31763.
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