Terrell “Terry” Anderson, 70, of Haines City, FL passed away February 17, 2021. He was born on May 29, 1950 in Winter Haven, FL. Terry was a proud veteran who honorably served his country in the US Marines Corp from 1968 to 1974. He attained the rank of LCpl, while serving during the Vietnam War where he received the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Combat Action Ribbon, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. Terry was a true American hero, not only did he serve our country, he served Polk county as a firefighter for 28 years. He was a member of Still Water Christian Life Center, the American Legion, and a 30 year member of the Moose Lodge.Terry loved Lord, his church, and his family, especially, his loving companion, Muriel, who he was dedicated to, protective of. He also loved his dog, Cricket and his cat Missy, who he called “Kitty”. Terry was a master pool player winning many championships as well as being an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed skydiving, fishing, scuba diving and traveling with Muriel in their travel trailer. He also enjoyed being in his boat on the lake. In his younger years, he played in a band, he was incredibly musically gifted, playing trumpet, guitar, and the keyboard, many of those he was self-taught. It was also said that he was very talented as an artist and his favorite football team were the Bucs. His family remembers him as a strong, humble man, who loved to help others and make everyone happy.
He was predeceased by his mother, Sarah Varnadoe. Terry is survived by his loving companion, of 27 years, Muriel Squires; aunts, Betty Wiley, Sharon Thomas and Aileen Varnadoe; and several cousins.
Muriel would like to thank the staff & chaplains of Cornerstone Hospice for the loving care they gave to Terry and to the nurses who care for him while he was at home. Thanks to his friends for the kindness at this time.
A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, March 4th, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Still Water Christian Life Center with Pastor Mike Thompson, officiating. Final resting place will be at Forest Hill Cemetery in Haines City, FL. In lieu of flowers the family requests donation to be made to St. Jude Children Hospital.
