Vardaman Terry, Jr.

A longtime fixture in the South Valley agriculture industry and community, Vardaman Terry, Jr., 71, passed away recently. Vard was born in December 1953, in Wasco, CA. He dedicated his life to family, faith, and service to the community.

Former President of H.M. Holloway, Vard was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, brother, friend and colleague. His family and faith were the cornerstones of his life. He lived each day with integrity, generosity, and a deep sense of tradition and purpose. He is survived by his wife, Carol Terry; sisters Glenda and Judy; children Vard, Cory, and Daniel; their spouses; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his brother Allen and parents, Vard and Joyce Terry.

Vard Jr. grew up in Wasco and also spent a lot of time in Lost Hills and Bakersfield before eventually moving to Morro Bay after his retirement in 2022. Vard and Carol cherished their 48 years of marriage together. They enjoyed traveling, family gatherings, and dinners with friends.

Vard worked at Holloway for more than 50 years. A graduate of Wasco High in 1972, he began his career at Holloway's Lost Hills gypsum mine just two days after his 18th birthday. From that first job running equipment at the mine, to his eventual role as company President in 2012, Vard's work ethic, leadership and unwavering commitment earned him the respect of colleagues and customers alike. He also became part owner of the company, carrying forward a family tradition - working alongside his father, Vard, Sr., his brother, Allen, and brother-in-law Charles (all worked at the company for 50 years), and later his son, Daniel. Vard retired in April 2022, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, integrity and loyalty.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Vard's faith and community were central to his life. Vard served as a reserve sheriff in Wasco for a time, and was an active member of many local organizations, which provided Vard with an opportunity to give back. He was especially proud of his work in assisting with the creation of programs like Tomorrow's Leaders Today. Vard and his family were active members of Trinity Lutheran Church in Wasco, and later St. John's Lutheran Church in Bakersfield, where he served and worshipped faithfully.

Vard found joy in simple pleasures. He loved watching baseball and his children and grandchildren play sports. Some of his favorite times included golfing, hunting, fishing and fly fishing with friends and family. His witty stories, warm smile, and genuine interest in others made him a treasure to be around. He built lasting friendships wherever he went.

A memorial service for Vard will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 23, at St. John's Lutheran Church, 4500 Buena Vista Road, Bakersfield, CA.

The family is considering opportunities to celebrate Vard's life and legacy through donations to the community. Details will be shared at VardTerry.com as plans are made.