Terry Lee Austin Sr., 77, of Rochelle, passed away Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at his home. He was born January 2, 1948 in Rochelle. Terry married Wanda Ussery on June 17th, 1967, at First Baptist Church in Rochelle. Terry and Wanda shared 57 years of marriage.

An entrepreneur, Terry started and ran a successful appliance repair business, "Austin's Major Appliance," in Rochelle, building a reputation for reliability and skill. For 21 years, he worked as a printing press operator at Rochelle Printing and, finally, Hub Printing. Upon moving to Hayward, WI, he enjoyed working as a motorsports service mechanic at Hayward Marine for 11 years. Terry's affinity for mechanical work didn't stop there; upon returning to Rochelle, IL, he embraced the challenge of assembling big rig trailers at Etnyre in Oregon, IL.

His passion for the outdoors was evident in his love for fishing, hunting, camping, target shooting, and assisting family members in the field during farming season.

Known for his infectious humor and vibrant personality, Terry was the life of every gathering. His unmatched ability to lighten the mood with a perfectly timed joke or humorous tale brought laughter to everyone around him. Whether it was recounting an amusing incident on one of his many outdoor adventures or his way of re-telling a joke in his way, Terry had a gift for storytelling that left everyone smiling.

Terry's memory will forever be cherished by his loving family wife, Wanda (Ussery) Austin of Rochelle, IL; his three children, Terry (Constance) Austin Jr. of Stafford, VA, and Michael (Seanna) Austin of San Diego, CA,  and Shelley Johnson of Rochelle IL. Sister, Deb (Terry) Schabacker Sister in Law: Colette Austin. Grandchildren: Brittney (Jerome) White, Tara (Quantrell) Johnson, Lucas Austin, Craig (Ginger) Austin, Tyler Johnson, and Lily Austin. Great-grandchildren: Jace Ramirez, Sariah Johnson, Navey Ramirez, Remi Ramirez, Romari Johnson, and many nieces and nephews. Who shared many cherished moments and adventures with him throughout his life. His legacy of strength, knowledge, and humor will resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Luther L. Austin Jr., his mother, Norma (Wares) Austin, and his brother, SgtMaj (Ret) Gary L. Austin.

Visitation will be Monday, January 20th, 4 pm-7 pm at Unger Funeral Home, 400 N 6th St. Rochelle, IL 61068. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Terry's memory may be directed to St. Jude Children's Hospital. Please visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.