John "Clayon" Terry

John "Clayton" Terry, age 83, passed away peacefully on the 9th of February, 2026, in Marianna, Florida. Born on the 7th of March, 1942, in Manatee County, Florida, Clayton was raised working alongside his family on the farm in Pedro, FL.

Preceded in death by his parents, John and Olivia Terry; his brother, Woody Terry; his sister, Eurydice Swick; and his cherished grandson, Blake Sims; Clayton's memory will be forever treasured by his loving wife of 36 years, Verna Terry. He is also survived by his children, Charlene Terry (Jimmy Melcher), David Lyle Terry, Azur Bedini (Brent), and George Thurston (Jennifer), as well as his grandchildren, Sarah, Natalie, and Hunter, and his niece, Lisa Rainey; along with many more extended family and friends.

Clayton's journey from the farm in Pedro to the heart of his community in North Florida was paved with diligence and a buoyant spirit. He held the honor of graduating from high school in Summerville, Florida, in 1960 and further pursued his vocational passion by attending Jacksonville Barber College to become a barber. Clayton's other professions included his career as an auctioneer at Clayton's Cornucopia, serving in sales for Liberty National Life Insurance Company, and he was the owner of Belleview Bar & Package. Upon moving to Marianna, Clayton had the honor to work at Rahal Chevrolet and Marianna Toyota, before taking a position with Bob and John Pforte that included a 25-year tenure at Bob Pforte Motors.

Never one to sit idle, Clayton involved himself wholeheartedly in the Marianna Moose Lodge and was an avid fisherman. At home, he was a professional tinkerer, always ready to fix what was broken or create something new. His hands were a testament to his belief in the beauty of work and the joy of creation, leading many to describe him as a jack of all trades and master of none-an accolade he wore with pride.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Dr. Joe Gay and the staff of Emerald Coast Hospice for the loving care they provided to Clayton and his family.

A celebration of Life service will be at the Marianna Moose Lodge and will be announced a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to the Lambe Family at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home.