Terry Lee Elion was born October 28, 1952 in Memphis, Tennessee to the late Audrey I and Howard W. Elion. Terry graduated from Central High School in 1970 and shortly after joined the United States Navy. After four years of service in the Navy, he reenlisted into the United States Coast Guard. In the summer of 1978, while stationed in New Orleans, Louisiana as a corpsman, he met his wife, Jan at U.S. Public Hospital. After a few short months of dating, he proposed and the two were married on February 3, 1979.
While out to sea in the Gulf of Mexico in February of 1982, his first daughter, Jennifer, was born. Four years later, Terry and Jan would welcome their second daughter, Rena, in January. In 2018, he welcomed his granddaughter, Corinne. In 1998 after 26 years of service in the U.S. Coast Guard, Terry retired in Chesapeake, Virginia where he and his family remained. In 2019, Terry had his second and final retirement from Home Depot after 20 years of work there.
Terry was an avid gardener who loved his plants and “piddling” in his garden. No matter where home was, he was sure to have plenty of plants both outside and inside. Terry was also a very talented artist; he loved to paint, draw and take pictures. In his retirement, Terry continued to enjoy his yard and garden.
Terry is predeceased by his brothers, Winston Elion, Felton Elion and sister, Josie F. Elion. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Jan Bennett Elion; his children, Jennifer Michelle Elion and Rena Samantha Elion; granddaughter, Corinne Lee Boone’ son-in-law, James Boone, Sr.; sisters, Mable “Chris” Brewer and Doris A. Bailey; brother, Victor H. Elion and David H. Elion, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends who became family.
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A. Coastie says
January 10, 2020 at 7:48 amFair winds Coastie, Rip.
Robert Evelyn says
January 13, 2020 at 6:06 pmSo sorry to hear of my Shipmates passing. I will always remember the good time while stationed together, first in Cape May and then on Governors Island. My condolences to the family. Rest easy Chief, we have the watch :(
DARVEEN M JORDEN says
January 28, 2020 at 11:16 amJan it sorrows my heart to hear about the Passing of your Husband. You have my condolences and you and your family are in my prayers. R.I.P. Mr. Elion.
Michael R Riggs HS1 USCGRET. says
April 27, 2020 at 2:42 pmJan I just found out today 27spr20 about Terry .
May you and the girls stay wrapped in the grace of JESUS.
Lucille Manini says
May 11, 2020 at 4:01 pmMy deepest condolences to you and your family. His absence is heart felt among his friends. He is remembered always.