Terry W. Dennis

Terry Wayne Dennis, age 63, transitioned to eternal life on February 4, 2026, in Odessa, Texas. He was born on March 31, 1962, in McCamey, Texas, the third of six children born to Major Robert Dennis and Stella Marie Brown, both of whom preceded him in death—Major on September 21, 2013, and Stella on April 28, 2023.

Terry spent his early years in Odessa and San Antonio, Texas, then Watts and Lynwood, California. In 1975, his family settled in Artesia, California, where he attended school before relocating to Fresno for college. After graduating, he returned to Artesia and later moved to Pomona, California.

Raised in a loving, close-knit family, Terry learned loyalty, responsibility, and resilience values that stayed with him throughout his life. He was someone others looked to for guidance and laughter. His presence could fill a room, and his humor, timing, and warmth made every gathering brighter.

In 1980, Terry graduated from Gahr High School, where he was an All-CIF football player and was twice listed in Who’s Who Among American High School Students. He earned his associate degree from Cerritos College in 1982, continued his football career there, and transferred to Fresno State on a football scholarship. While attending Fresno State, he met his soon-to-be wife, Nina Dennis, and, on December 17, 1984, had his firstborn daughter, Tashae Dennis. He started his family, continued playing football, and graduated in 1985.

That same year, Terry accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior, an important milestone in his personal journey of faith. In true Terry fashion, he chose to be baptized by his mother one evening in the family pool, affirming his faith in his own way.

Terry tried out for the Oakland Raiders before deciding to pursue a path that would allow him to make a lasting difference. Determined to positively change the trajectory of his family, friends, and future generations, he committed himself to becoming an attorney.

He earned his Juris Doctorate from Western State University in 1989 and was admitted to the California State Bar on June 11, 1990. To put this achievement into perspective, the American Bar Association reported that African American attorneys accounted for approximately 2.5% of the profession in 1990, meaning Terry was among a small and influential group of Black lawyers nationwide. 

He began his career as a public defender at the Compton Courthouse before establishing his own law practice. By 1993, he had opened three offices, including one in the World Trade Center in Long Beach, California, as well as offices in Van Nuys and Pasadena. His work was more than a profession—it was a calling. He fought for people who needed a voice, a second chance, or someone who believed in them.

Terry remained deeply committed to giving back to his community, especially through coaching and mentoring young people. He possessed a unique gift for reaching those who needed confidence, guidance, encouragement, structure, and, at times, the tough love required to stay on the right path.

Terry is survived by his former wife, Nina Dennis; his first son, Deandre Moore; his only daughter, Tashae Dennis; his firstborn son, Terrance Dennis; his baby boy, Naron Dennis; his cherished granddaughter, who was his world, twin Taya Dennis; and his beloved daughters-in-law, Jennell Dennis and Taleea Moore. He is also survived by his five siblings: Marla Brown, Ramona Dennis (Kenny Roberts), Olivia Wyatt, Major Dennis Jr. (Yvette Scott), and Pamela Dennis, who were not only family but his closest lifelong friends and confidants.

Terry’s legacy continues through his nephews: Deanthony Roberts (Godson) (Shvawn Roberts), Emmanuel Wyatt, Daveon Thomas, Deonte Roberts, and Trevon Dennis, and his niece, Tamira Dennis. He is further survived by his great-nephews and great-nieces: Tye Moore, Deandre Moore Jr., Denae Moore, Jalyn Moore, Malachi Wyatt, and Emon Wyatt; and his great-great-nephew, Kye Saint Moore.

Terry was preceded in death by his nephew, Lawrence Dennis, in 1993; his parents, Stella Brown and Major Dennis; and his grandparents, Charlie and Olivia Brown, Clara Mae Crawford, and Major Dennis.

Terry leaves behind a large extended family and countless individuals whose lives were touched by his kindness, strength, and laughter. His absence creates a profound void, but his spirit—bold, loving, humorous, and deeply rooted in service will continue to guide everyone who knew him.