Richard Terrill "Terry" Fair

1937 - 2025

Bayview - Richard "Terry" Fair age 87 went to meet his Lord and Savior on Tues March 19th 2025 on his home property in Bayview Wa.

He was born Oct 8, 1937 in Cambridge Ohio to Charles and Mavis Fair. He would be the first born son of 5 in the family with a sister joining the family later.

As he grew into a young lad he worked on the neighbor's farm in the summer milking cows, doing various farm chores and "putting up hay the old fashion way". During this time his future sweetheart would come to the farm to pay the rent. This was where she caught his attention and the romance began.

On August 21st 1954 they tied the knot. Not too long after their first son was born, Richard Timothy Fair. After their 2nd child was born Regina Lynn Fair they decided to make their home in Washington State with Terry starting his career at the Texaco Refinery. Off Terry headed to Wa from Ohio with a car packed full of their belongings and a baby crib strapped to the top of the car! Meanwhile Shirley followed a bit later flying with a 3 1/2 yr old and a 6 week baby alone. Her hands were so full that the pilot had to carry Regina onto the plane.

After a time they settled on Fruitdale Road in Sedro Woolley where they resided until moving to Bayview in 1974 where they built their home on 10 acres.

Living in Bayview was like a dream come true for Terry. He was close to his work at the refinery and had 10 acres in which he raised cattle, ducks, dogs, cats, a horse and hay. He loved his tractor and small farm equipment. For a time continued to put up hay "the old fashioned way" and was always willing to help the neighbors if they were in need of his assistance in any way with his tractor.

Terry was a volunteer Firefighter and eventually the Fire Chief for 25 years in the Bayview Community. He was well loved and respected. He was an active member of the Church of Christ in Burlington and Mount Vernon and even helped with the construction of the building for the Burlington Church of Christ. He retired from the Texaco refinery with over 30 years of service.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, gardening and outdoor activities. He especially loved going to his grandchildren's sporting events, keeping a journal in his pocket to track their stats and to cheer them on.

He made it to 70 years of marriage to his wife Shirley and lived on his property for 52 years. He was an icon in the neighborhood and was always giving a wave to people passing by. He never wanted to leave the homestead and he got his wish.

He is preceded in death by his son Richard Timothy Fair, Brothers Foster Fair and Alan Fair.

He is survived by his wife Shirley Fair, daughter Regina Fair ONeill of Sedro Woolley, former son in law David ONeill of Arlington, Brothers Tom Fair (Judy) of Sedro Woolley, Ted Fair of Burlington, Sister Tammy Fair OHarrow of LaConner, Grandchildren Richard Elliott Fair of Montana, Chaundra (Jason) Robertson of Roundup, Tyson ONeill (Chantel Keller) of Stanwood, Travis ONeill, Troy ONeill (Nickole) of Gilbert AZ. He had numerous nieces and nephews and many great grandchildren that all loved him dearly.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Burlington Church of Christ off Gardner Road on Saturday April 26th at 1 pm.