Terry Guillory Smith

Terry Guillory Smith, known affectionately as Terry, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 69. Born on April 6, 1956, in Houston, Texas, Terry's early years were filled with the vibrant culture of her Cajun/Creole heritage, which remained a cornerstone of her identity throughout her life.

Terry was a woman of strength, resilience, and love. Known by many as “OG Terry,” she became a mother at a young age and faced life’s challenges with courage and determination. She was resourceful and skilled, whether sewing clothing for her family, working under the hood of a car, or navigating the outdoors with ease.

Her faith was a steady guide, and she found comfort in reading her Bible. She was a “daddy’s girl,” holding close the memory of her late parents, Watney Joseph and Mazie Guillory. She was also preceded in death by her siblings Phillip, Judy, and Carolyn Guillory; and nephew, Ebon Hunter.

Terry is survived by her sons, Paul Joseph Smith and Evan John Guillory (Glenda Shepherd-Guillory); her granddaughter, Gabriella Joy Guillory; her brother, Steve Guillory; and nephews David Claybon, Gery Claybon, and Tracy Claybon. She also shared a special bond with Joseph Ronald Cleveland and Hans Alan Clark, who were both like a son to her.

Family gatherings were not complete without Terry’s barbecue, which brought everyone together in laughter and love. Selfless and giving, she always put her family first and passed down life skills with patience and care. She also found purpose and joy in her work as a home healthcare nurse aide, where she cared for her patients with the same compassion and dedication she showed her family.

Though she spent most of her life in Texas, Terry later moved to Dothan to be closer to some of her family members. More than her work or community involvement, her role as a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend was her true legacy.

Terry will be remembered as a loving, adventurous, and faith-filled woman whose presence was a gift to all who knew her. Her memory will live on through the love she gave and the lessons she instilled in those she cherished.