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Terry Ells Smith died peacefully at age 77, in his home in Mulberry, Florida on Dec. 26, 2023, surrounded by his family.
Terry was a graduate of Paden City High School, Class of 1964. He received a golf scholarship to Marshall University.
In 1970, Terry embarked upon the tough road towards professional golfing, studying under L.B. Floyd (father of PGA Pro Raymond Floyd), at Cypress Lakes Golf and Country Club in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Terry competed successfully at the amateur and professional levels, as well as in mini tours throughout the southeastern United States. He played against some of golf's greatest players, such as Sam Snead. One of Terry's most notable wins was the 1976 West Virginia Open.
Terry, along with his father Marvin, designed the Riverside Golf Course in Sardis, Ohio in 1987, and Terry designed the Crooked Creek Golf Course in Belmont, Ohio, which opened in 1995. He also held the titles of Golf Club Pro and Golf Course Superintendent at various courses in Ohio and West Virginia.
Terry was a true golf advocate, playing his entire life. Upon retiring, he lived overlooking a golf course to continue pursuing his passion.
He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend and avid WVU Mountaineer fan. Terry will be missed by many.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Grace Smith, brother Marc Smith, and uncle Charles R. Smith.
He is survived by: His wife of 31 years, golfing buddy, and best friend, Claudia Cole Smith; children Katherine (Keith) Koerber of Florida, Penny (Jon) Baker of West Virginia, Terry Smith II of West Virginia, Cindy (Dave) Snyder of Florida and Candy Cole of California.
Grand-children Amanda Koerber-Polatty (fiance Jeremy Schroeder), Kayla (Chad) Corbin, Alicia (William) Spell, Bradley Baker (fiance Hallie McDonald), Joey Baker, Gracelyn Smith, Megan Lamar, and Landon Snyder.
Great-grandchildren Cameron, Payton, MaKenzie, Brooklyn, Austin, Channing, Olivia, Luke, and Abigail Rose; sister Janie (Bruce) Giebler of Florida, nephew Fred Davis, numerous cousins; and a special brother-in-law, Sam Stewart, who caddied for Terry in many of his tournaments.
Terry's wish was to be cremated and as such, in lieu of visitation, memorial contributions may be made to the Paden City Flag Fund or the Paden City Scholarship Foundation.
"Life is like a round of golf, with many a turn and twist.
But the game is much too sweet and short
To curse the shots you've missed."
-- Criswell Freeman