Terry Decker Leene

Terry Decker Leene, age 73, of Wake Forest, NC, died unexpectedly and peacefully in her home on December 7, 2025 – no pain, no fear, no stress.
Terry graduated from Elmira Southside High School in 1970 and later earned her degree in accounting from Elmira College, graduating summa cum laude. She went on to build a long and dedicated career in the field, working for the Carborundum Company of Niagara Falls, NY; the Milton Bradley Company of Springfield, MA; and the deButts, Campbell & Roberts CPA Firm of Raleigh, NC.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Terry was a deeply caring and thoughtful person – one of those rare individuals whose kindness shaped every part of her life. Devoted to her family, she responded instantly when a need arose, offering support to her siblings and serving as loving caregiver to her aging mother.
Family was everything to Terry. She was tremendously proud of her children and held a special bond with her many nieces and nephews. Known for her quiet generosity, she never sought recognition for the kindness she offered; it was simply the essence of who she was.
Terry's life was enriched by her love of travel. She treasured the opportunity to explore many places, including Canada, Alaska, France, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Monaco, Ireland, Bermuda and the Caribbean.
An avid reader throughout her life, Terry passed on her love of books to the children around her, reading with them at every opportunity. Her monthly book club remained a source of joy and connection.
For over 73 years, Terry was well-loved; now she is deeply missed.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 45 years, Robert ("Bob") Leene, and her beloved children, Jennifer Leene and Christopher Leene. She deeply cherished her grandchildren, all of whom brought tremendous joy to her life: Jamie and Brandon Davis, Julien Leene – as well as her great-grandson Dakota Davis.
Terry is also survived by five sisters and one brother: Linda Decker of Cape Coral, FL; Carole (Ron) Hine of Castle Hayne, NC; Jean (Ed) Gargala of Amherst, NY; Patricia Decker of Wake Forest, NC; Lori (Jeff) Antes of Wake Forest, NC; and John (Cynthia) Decker of Erieville, NY. In addition, she is survived by her uncle, James (Jane) Lewis of Columbia, SC, who was like a brother to her.
Her surviving brothers-in-law include Thomas (Karen) Leene of South Burlington, VT; James (Lana) Leene of Palm Beach Gardens, FL; and sister-in-law Margaret Leene of Montpelier, VT.
In addition, Terry leaves behind 33 special nieces and nephews, several cousins, and many dear friends. She was pre-deceased by her parents, Richard and JoAnn Decker of Elmira, NY, by one special niece, and one dear cousin.
A Memorial Mass to honor Terry will be held on Friday, January 9, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Catherine of Siena, 520 West Holding Avenue, Wake Forest, NC 27587. The Mass will be immediately followed by the Rite of Committal in the Memorial Garden behind the church.
For those wishing to make a contribution in her memory, the family suggests the American Heart Association, the Arthritis Foundation, or your local library.