Terry Lee Smith was born on March 2, 1948 in Long Beach, California. He passed peacefully on April 3, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee.
Terry grew up in Long Beach, attending Grant Elementary School, Hamilton Junior High School, Jordan High School and Long Beach City College. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business at Polytechnic State University, Pomona. Terry loved playing basketball at Hamilton and Jordan and was an exceptional guard for his teams.
Terry had a distinguished career in the beverage business over a span of 30 plus years working for Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Seven Up and Odwalla. He started out as a delivery driver and worked his way up through various positions as a salesman, area sales manager, branch and operations manager. He was a very hard working and dedicated employee in each of his jobs. In his spare time, he also enjoyed coaching, playing basketball and slow-pitch softball with his friends from high school and work.
Terry also had a passion for travel. He and the family spent many vacations on the road traveling throughout the country visiting almost all of its states. We also have many great memories of the times we spent at our vacation homes in Lake Havasu, Arizona and then Big Bear Lake, California; boating and Sea-Dooing on the lakes with our friends.
After retirement, we moved to Idaho, Arizona and Tennessee, where we enjoyed the different aspects of each state. Terry’s favorite past time was watching his favorite team, the UConn women’s basketball team. We only wish he could have seen them win their 12th Championship title.
Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Luetta Smith.
He is survived by his wife of almost 55 years, Rileen Baverstock Smith of Manchester, TN; son, Andrew Smith of Manchester, TN; and daughter, Robin Smith of Garden Grove, California. He spent many enjoyable hours watching both of their practices and games; Andy’s football and Robin’s basketball.
A private family ceremony will be held at a later date. He will be greatly missed. We know he’s enjoying his favorite teams with the best view and watching over all of us.
Please leave online condolences for the family at www.jenningsandayers.com. Jennings and Ayers Funeral Home, 820 South Church Street, Murfreesboro, TN. 615-893-2422
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