Lelia R. "Lee" Terry, age 95, longtime resident of Darling Road, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, September 9, 2024.
Born on November 5, 1928, in Cuyler, N.Y., she was one of 13 children born to the late Raymond and Effa (nee Woodford) Ike. Upon completion of high school, she was married to John Terry. She had a long career as a therapy aide at Willard Psychiatric Center, retiring in 1978, and then worked at the Reserve Center in Ithaca following her retirement. Lee's family was her source of joy and comfort, surrounding herself with children and grandchildren. She had a fondness for dogs, and had many in her lifetime, while also tending to her flower beds at home, knitting, crocheting, reading and working jigsaw puzzles. Her health, humor, kindness and wit remained strong all throughout her years, which she passed to her generations of family.
She is survived by her children: Cheryl Pell of Interlaken, Debby Karlsen of Ovid, Sandy (Bernie) Hauf of Willard, John (Peggy) Terry of Interlaken; six grandchildren: Kim, Lisa, Jamie, Jeremy, Jennifer, and Ashley; and seven great grandchildren; her siblings: RC Ike of Horseheads, Clyde "Nick" Ike of Interlaken, Rhea Ike of Trumansburg and Della Nelson of Norwich and a large extended family.
Lelia was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, John in 2016; her sons in law, Butch Pell and Bill Karlsen; a great grandson; and by her siblings: Owen Ike, Grace Terry, June Hendrix, Illa Reynolds, Russell Ike, Roy "Joe" Ike, Jerry Ike and Carl Ike.
The family will receive friends at Covert Funeral Home in Ovid from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Monday (September 16). A funeral service will then follow at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Robert Ike. Prayers of committal will be held at Lake View Cemetery in Interlaken.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation in Lee's memory to Lake View Cemetery, PO Box 562, Interlaken, N.Y. 14847.
