Terry Allen Smith

Terry Allen Smith, age 63, of Whitney, Texas, passed away Saturday, January 17, 2026, at home. Funeral services will take place at 2:00 PM, Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Marshall and Marshall Funeral Directors in Whitney. A visitation will be held prior to the service, starting at noon. Burial will follow service at Bethlehem Cemetery, Whitney, Texas.

He was born April 4, 1963, in Germany, to Jerry Allen and Gwen (Wilkes) Smith.

From early childhood, Terry Smith was known for his strong will and determined spirit. Even at a young age, his remarkable athletic ability was evident. Terry began riding motorcycles at just seven years old. By the age of ten, he set his sights on learning to ride a unicycle and by twelve, he had mastered it. At fourteen, he advanced to riding a six-foot unicycle, astonishing everyone who watched. As he rode down the street, traffic would stop in awe, as this was a feat typically seen only performed by adults in the circus.

As a freshman in high school, Terry focused his athletic talents on track, dedicating himself to training for the 440-yard dash. His hard work paid off when he broke, for our school system, both Texas and national records with an incredible time of 41.8 seconds. Terry's talents did not go unnoticed, and he was recruited by Texas Tech. Ultimately, Terry chose a different path, as academics were not his favorite pursuit.

In adulthood, Terry became highly skilled in roofing, painting, and carpentry, earning respect for his craftsmanship and strong work ethic. At the age of twenty-nine, Terry met his soulmate and the love of his life, Candi Smith. Together they shared a happy and loving marriage for thirty-three years.

Terry was deeply loved and respected by all who knew him. He was known for his honesty, trustworthiness, and unwavering character, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.

He is preceded in death by his father, Jerry Smith and his older brother, Gary Smith. Terry is survived by his wife, Candi Smith; his sons, Marcus Swiat and his wife, Angeline, and Justen Keesling; his granddaughters, Lyndsi Swiat and Eveie Swiat; his great-grandson, Zaydyn Swiat; his mother, Gwen Smith; his brother, Toby Smith and his wife, Sue; his sister, Sherri Smith; his father and mother-in-law, Marcus and Charlene Hardin; his brother-in-law and best friend, Jerry Dye; his sister-in-law, Mickie Dye; numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; and many good friends.