Terry Wayne Short's Obituary
Terry Wayne Short of Alachua, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 67 years old.
Terry was born on November 5, 1957, in Pedley, California, to James Thomas Short and Joyce Maxine Miller Short. He spent his life working as a talented residential home builder and commercial contractor. A master in beautiful stucco work on many homes and high rises along the Emerald Coast in Florida in the Destin, Boca Raton, Naples and surrounding areas. Terry was known not only for all his skills and dedication but for his generosity. Whether it was family, friends, or even strangers, Terry was always ready to lend a helping hand with a home project or anything else.
A devoted family man and committed Christian, Terry was deeply involved in the church. His faith was a guiding force in his life, and he took special care to ensure that each of his children understood the importance of their relationship with God and baptism. He was a gentle, gracious, and kind soul, as well as, an incredible husband, father, brother, and beloved “Papa” to his grandchildren.
Terry loved the Smoky Mountains, especially Gatlinburg, where many cherished family memories were made. He also enjoyed time at the beach and had a fondness for quiet mornings with breakfast and conversation. He truly enjoyed woodwork and loved to hand craft beautiful things for family and friends. He always had an unconditional love for his pets too.
He was preceded in death by his parents James Thomas Short and Joyce Maxine Miller Short and his brother Thomas Short.
Terry is survived by his children, Steven Wayne Short, Tara Lynn Wolford and husband Bradley, Tanya Maxene Short and life partner Cameron, and their mother; his grandchildren Mason, Rosalyn, Scarlett, and Kyla; Stephanee and husband Sam and their children John, Jennifer, and Sabella; and sisters Pat, Nancy, and Karen.
Also surviving is his loving life partner Mary Lorraine Owens and her children and grandchildren. As well as many extended family members and friends. Terry's legacy is one of service, faith, and unwavering love for his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held to honor Terry's life, Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Destiny Worship Center, 122 Poinciana Blvd, Miramar Beach, FL 32550.
For those who wish, in lieu of flowers please consider a memorial donation in his memory to Destiny Worship Center at https://app.securegive.com/DestinyWorship/destin-campus/donate/category - select “special offering” for donation or to https://pawsofhonor.org/
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