Terry D. O'Connors

1944 - 2022

Terry D. O'Connors

February 7, 1944 -

June 21, 2022

Terry David O'Connors passed away peacefully at his home June 21, 2022 with his family by his side following a eight month battle with cancer.

Terry was born February 7, 1944 and grew up on a farm out on Griffin Creek with his mom & dad and older siblings Blane & Sharon. He was a 1962 graduate of Medford Senior High where he enjoyed playing football. Right after graduation Terry joined the Air Force where he graduated at the top of his class as a Jet engine Mechanic, and also received a certificate of achievement for Small Arms Marksmanship. He was stationed at Lockbourne Air Force Base in Ohio where he spent his four years working above and beyond on many aircraft during the war.

He was voted Airman of the month on numerous occasions during his service. Terry met and married his wife Patricia Madden in 1964 and their son Micheal O'Connors was born in October of 1965. After serving his four years Terry returned to the Rogue Valley where his passion for fishing became undeniable. Terry & Patricia had a daughter Jackie O'Connors (Lee) in 1969.

Now on the river Terry continued to grow his business and skill in helping others land fish in the boat and guide them on trips through the canyon. He built his reputation as a top boatman and one of the top guides on the Rogue River. He also guided in Alaska and California and had fished rivers in British Columbia & Idaho. Terry & Patricia separated in 1987.

Through a mutual friend Terry was introduced to Judy Gibson and they married in August of 1990. Judy had two sons (Jim & Brett Gibson) coming into the marriage. Together they purchased land in White City and added a home & shop to the property. They continued to build Rogue Excursions throughout the years.

Terry spent the rest of his life as a well respected river guide, but that wasn't all Terry was, he was a hard working family man who always provided and would do anything to help his family.

He was loved by his two children, but one of his favorite things was being a Papa to his grandchildren Brittney & Mackenzie.

Terry was adored by his wife Judy for 32 years and also by his son Mike and his daughter Jackie & his two step sons Jim and Bret. Terry had six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Terry is survived by his wife Judy O'Connors, son, Michael O'Connors, daughter, Jackie Lee, sister, Sharon Wilder and step-sons Jim Gibson and Bret Gibson.

Terry was preceded in death by his father, Harold O'Connors, mother, Dorothy O'Connors, and brother, Blane O'Connors Jr.

Terry was loved and respected by all, but most of all by his family, he will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His legacy continues through all that loved him.

You will be missed forever Dad! Until we meet again in Heaven….We Love You.