Michael Delan Terry

With heartfelt love, we celebrate the life and legacy of Michael Delan Terry, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose presence brought light to all who knew him.

Michael attended elementary school in Paducah, Kentucky, North Hollywood High School in Los Angeles, California, and Lansing Community College in Lansing, Michigan.

Michael dedicated his career to serving others with humility and grace. He spent many years working for the Tarrant County Courts, where his kindness, professionalism, and warm smile earned him the friendship of judges, lawyers, and colleagues alike. Later, as Head Custodian with Fort Worth ISD for over thirty years, Michael became a beloved figure among students, staff, and the community — known for his reliability, laughter, and genuine care for others.

Michael was a man who never met a stranger. To family and friends, he was affectionately known as “Pawpaw” — a proud and loving patriarch — and “Big Mike” for his confident presence and impeccable style. Whether at work, at home, or out in the community, Michael was always sharply dressed, wearing his signature polished shoes, stylish clothing, and gleaming jewelry.

A founding member of The Bunch Social and Charity Club, Michael loved celebrating life, helping others, and showcasing his unique sense of style. His laughter filled every room, his kindness touched every heart, and his wisdom guided generations.

Michael will forever be remembered as the pillar of his family — a man of strength, faith, and love. His memory lives on through every life he touched and every smile he inspired.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents; father, Leroy Terry Jr.; stepmother, Carol Terry; and many other aunts and uncles.

Those left to cherish his memory: loving wife of 44 Years, Frances L. Terry; children, Charmon Mills-Houston, Charmeka Mills, and Charles Mills II (Leslie); mother, Arlene Luna; siblings, Monwell McGee (Annette), Teresa Adeji, Vivian Martin (Cherie), Mable James, Carmen Phillips; aunt, Martha Albright; grandchildren, Charelle, Deidra, Caylon, Joshua, Camyron, Caliph, Mackenzie, and Carter; two great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Public Visitation will be held from 12:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at Williams and Lucas Funeral Home located at 517 N. Sylvania Avenue, Fort Worth, Texas 76111. Funeral Service will also be held at Williams and Lucas Funeral Home in Fort Worth at 12 Noon on Friday, October 24, 2025 with Rev. Keith Gardner officiating.