Terry Neal Hess

Terry Neal Hess, age 85, of Quincy, Illinois, passed away peacefully at the Illinois Veterans Home, surrounded by love.

Terry was born on October 28, 1940, in Quincy, Illinois, to Fred and Mary Hess. He grew up in Quincy, where he built lifelong friendships and strong family roots that remained central throughout his life. He was a 1958 graduate of Quincy High School, a place that marked the beginning of many lifelong connections.

In 1958, Terry married the love of his life, Barbara Ann Kelley, in Quincy, Illinois. Together, they shared a devoted marriage and raised a family grounded in love, loyalty, and resilience.

That same year, Terry proudly began his service in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Stuttgart, Germany, serving for three years. During his service, Terry sustained a life-altering injury due to electrocution, which resulted in his honorable discharge. He was recognized as a Disabled Veteran, a distinction he wore with pride and honor throughout his life. In recognition of his service, Terry was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal and earned the Expert Badge with Carbine Bar and Submachine Gun Bar, as well as the Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar.

Following his military service, Terry built a long and dedicated career with United Parcel Service (UPS), where he was employed as a driver for over 30 years. Known for his reliability, strong work ethic, and commitment to doing the job right, Terry took great pride in his work. Through decades of early mornings and long days, he provided steadily for his family and earned the respect of coworkers and the community alike.

Terry was an avid hunter and fisherman, finding peace and purpose outdoors. Time spent in the woods and along the Mississippi River was deeply treasured, whether in quiet reflection or shared moments with family and friends. Nature was his refuge, and those memories will live on in the stories passed down through generations.

Terry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his three daughters: Tammy Christine Cornwell (Johnson), Sara Marie Nutt (Tim), and Julie Lynn Baker (Michael).

He was a proud grandfather to Casey and Ashley Cornwell, Dustin and Alison Cornwell, Kelley and Taylor Cornwell, Jacey and Ryan Runge, Kelsey Nutt, Lydia Nutt, Taylor and Codey Stephens, and Allie and Tyler Durst. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Londyn and Lane Cornwell, Lilah Nutt, Maylee Nutt, Knox and Stella Stephens, Liam and Lincoln Durst, and June and Wells Runge, each of whom brought him great joy.

Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Mary Hess; his brothers Gary Hess and Michael Hess; his sister-in-law Maureen Hess; and his beloved wife, Barbara Ann Hess.

Those who knew Terry will remember him as a man of quiet strength, steady humor, and unwavering devotion to his family. He lived his life with integrity and purpose, leaving a legacy that continues through the generations he loved so deeply.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 2, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Luther Memorial Church. Visitations will be held on Sunday, February 1, 2026 from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Duker & Haugh Funeral Home. Interment will be held at Greenmount Cemetery with military honors in recognition of Terry's service to his country. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Great River Honor Flight or Fishing for Freedom in Terry's memory. The Duke & Haugh Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.