Terrance "Terry" James Perkins was born on August 17, 1947, and grew up in Kennewick, WA. Throughout his life, Terry embodied service, leadership, creativity, and an unwavering devotion to family, friends, and the outdoors.

Terry graduated from Kennewick High School in 1965, where he was a four-year varsity baseball player. He loved being the team's catcher because, as he often said, he was "in on every play." He was also Drum Major of the Kennewick High School Marching Band, reflecting the leadership qualities that would remain with him throughout his life.

On October 14, 1967, Terry married the love of his life, Teresa Jones Perkins. Together they built a remarkable life and shared 58 years of marriage, raising three children: Tod, Tana, and Tressa.

Shortly after marrying Teresa, Terry answered the call to serve his country. He served honorably in the United States Army from 1967 to 1970, including service in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969 with the 4th Aircraft Maintenance Battalion, First Aviation Helicopter Brigade. During his military service, he earned numerous awards and decorations, including the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Citation, Sharpshooter Badge (M-14), and Expert Rifle Badge (M-16).

Following his military service, Terry worked in powerline construction alongside his father and brother before beginning a distinguished career in law enforcement. He served with the Benton County Sheriff's Department from 1973 to 1983, rising to the rank of Captain of Patrol. Terry later became the owner and operator of 7-Eleven Store #19636 on Clearwater Avenue in Kennewick. He concluded his professional career as a Special Investigator for the State of Washington and for Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Outside of work, Terry embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved boating and became a self-taught trick water skier. Some of his happiest memories were made spending summers at Priest Lake with family and friends, enjoying the water and creating lasting traditions.

Terry's passion for trapshooting began at age 12 and continued throughout his lifetime. He competed in ATA registered shoots across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Hawaii, and Arizona, earning shelves full of trophies and the respect of fellow competitors. He was also a talented woodcarver and metal artist whose creativity produced works cherished by family and friends.

A devoted outdoorsman, Terry enjoyed hunting, fishing, and jet boating through the beauty of Hells Canyon. No matter the activity, what meant the most to him was sharing those experiences with the people he loved. Whether gathered around family celebrations, outdoor adventures, or simple everyday moments, Terry treasured every opportunity to spend time with family and friends.

Terry was a proud member of the Kennewick Elks Lodge and remained deeply connected to the community he called home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wesley Clare Perkins and Patricia Ann Perkins. Terry is survived by his wife of 58 years, Teresa; his children, Tod (Brenda), Tana (John), and Tressa (Dan); his brother, David; grandchildren Elliot, Ryan, Cooper, Ryker, and Porter; great-grandchildren Bo and Cash; nephews Josh and Kyle; and cousins Pam, Cheryl, Patsy, Carol, Jerrie, Marcia, Dan, Kernie, Linda, Janet, Carol, and Ron

Terry's legacy lives on through the family he loved, the friends he cherished, the community he served, and the countless memories created on ball fields, waterski lakes, trap fields, rivers, and around family gatherings. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all that knew and loved him.

Full Military Honors Service honoring Terry’s life and service will take place 10/14/2026 at 1:30pm at Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake, WA.