Alton Norwood Terry

Alton Norwood Terry, 75, of Hillsborough, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family in Hillsborough, North Carolina.

Born on August 5, 1950, in Durham, North Carolina, Alton was the son of the late James Norwood Terry Jr. and Marva Lee Rogers Terry. He was also preceded in death by his beloved son and daughter, Robert Norwood Terry and Robin Nicole Terry.

Alton is survived by his loving daughter, Jessica Terry Wade and her husband, Daniel; his cherished grandchildren, Colin, Haley, Lucas, and Mason; along with many extended family members and many friends whose lives were touched by his kindness and humor.

Alton proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War era. Much later, he retired as the Manager of Orange County Public Transportation after dedicating many years of service. He was known for his strong work ethic, dedication to others, and willingness to help anyone in need.

To know Alton was to know laughter, generosity, and unconditional love. He was a God-fearing man with a quick sense of humor and a heart as big as they come. He enjoyed fishing, antiquing, attending auctions, collecting coins, and he really loved trying his luck at the casino. In addition to his many interests, he also spent time as an auctioneer, a role that allowed him to share his outgoing personality, quick wit, and love of people. He never passed up a good Sweet Tea, a cold Coke, a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, or a Milky Way bar. And his beloved Pall Mall cigarettes were never ever far from his reach.

More than any hobby or pastime, Alton treasured his family. His greatest joy in life was being a father and grandfather. He was especially proud of his daughter, Jessica, and made it known that being her dad was one of his life's greatest blessings. The bond that they shared was one of unwavering love, friendship, and devotion. Jessica was forever his little girl and he was forever her hero.

Though his family grieves his passing, they find comfort in knowing that his faith carried him home and that his legacy of love, laughter, and devotion will live on through those who knew him.

"Behind every daughter who believes in herself is a father who believed in her first."

A service for celebrating Alton’s life will be held at Clements Funeral Home in Durham, North Carolina on Monday, June 29, 2026 at 11am. Visitation with the family will be held one hour prior to the service.

Clements Funeral Home - 1105 Broad Street, Durham, NC 27705 - Preacher: Marc Francis

The family appreciates the love, prayers, and support shown during this very difficult time.