Mr. Terrell A. Smith Sr.

December 9, 1952 - January 23, 2018

Terrell A. Smith I, affectionately known as "Terry", or "T" departed from this life on January 23, 2018 in Kalamazoo, MI. He was born December 9, 1952 in Des Moines, IA to Anthony Morrow and Bara Jo Smith. A graduate of East High School in 1971, Terry went on to earn an AA in Sociology and Psychiatry from Colorado State University, and a BA in Sociology from Metro State University. He also was a two-time scholar award winner in African American Studies. Upon graduation, he served as the VP of Operations for the Greater LA Patrol. He went onto become Regional Manager for Loss Prevention for the Courtyard by Marriott Hotels in Chicago, IL, where he was recognized for saving a person's life. An active Mason in Illinois, he also served as a youth counselor and was president of his own company, entitled "TJS Enterprises". In 1980, Terry married Joy Richardson and together they have 2 children, Terrell II and Chrissana. Although the two divorced in 1987, they both continued to be active co-parents in their children's lives. Terry moved to Kalamazoo, MI in 1996 to be near his children and worked as a youth counselor and substance abuse counselor in the Kalamazoo,, Battle Creek and Benton Harbor areas, where he impacted the lives of many people. Terry had a passion for athletics, football, running and karate. In 2017, he received an honorary 3rd degree black belt from his home dojo in Denver, CO. Terry was a spiritual person and was a faithful member of Galilee Baptist Church in Kalamazoo, where he participated in weekly service even from his laptop when he couldn't be there in person. A percussionist, writer, NLP Practitioner and motivational speaker, he will forever be remembered for his words of wisdom and passion for the forward movement of African American people. He is preceded in death by his grandmother, Minnie Russell and his mother, Bara Jo Gater both of Denver, CO; and his father, Anthony Morrow of Des Moines, IA. Terry leaves behind to cherish his memory: his ex wife, Joy Smith of Kalamazoo, MI; his children, Terrell Smith II (Brittany); and Chrissana (Franklin) Fowlkes all of Kalamazoo, MI; grandchildren: Ajane, De'Ja, Taijah, Aa'Mari, Jordynn and Roman; three brothers, Shawn Gater, Mark Gater and Jeffery Gater; nephews, Stefan and Daren Gater; and nieces, Chanea Gater all of Denver, CO and Nakia Gater all of Orlando, FL. Also, a host of great nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He stated once if he could sum up his life in one statement, he would say, "God, family, football. A 100% first-class, stand-up guy".