Terry Lee Johnson

PINK HILL

Terry Lee Johnson, 58, of Pink Hill, North Carolina, was called to be with his Lord

and Savior on September23, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer.  He had the strongest will to live – for his family, and especially to watch his beloved grandchildren grow up.  It broke his heart to think he might not be there for all those milestones, but he fought bravely every step of the way.  Surrounded by his family, Terry passed peacefully, wrapped in love and prayer.

Born on February 11, 1967 in Dayton, Ohio, Terry was a proud graduate of Tippecanoe High School, Class of 1985.  He later made Pink Hill, NC his home, where he built a life full of love, laughter, hard work, and cherished relationships.

Terry was the beloved husband of Pam Johnson for 38 wonderful years.  Together they raised five sons: Zachary Johnson (Kristen Tyndall), Cody Johnson, Kyle Johnson, Alexander Johnson (Shelly Johnson), and Austin Johnson (Kierstin May).  Terry’s heart overflowed with pride and joy for his family, especially his beloved grandchildren: Beckham, Brycen, Bennett, Ariel, Oakleigh, Grayson.  These grandchildren were the light of his life – and everyone knew he was wrapped around their fingers.

Terry loved spending time with his family, especially grilling out, camping, and making lasting memories during quality time together.  He had a true love for the outdoors and found peace in being surrounded by nature.  He was also an avid car enthusiast – buying, selling, working on, and fixing up cars brought him real joy.  His garage was often filled with tools, projects, and stories.

Terry was known for his sharp wit, unfiltered honesty, and legendary sarcasm.  He never hesitated to speak his mind, but he’d also give you the shirt off his back.  He had a heart of gold and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.

He was extremely hard-working and always on the go – from sunup to sundown.  Whether it was for work, family, or friends, Terry gave his full energy and commitment to everything he did.

For the past 20 years, Terry worked at Hi-Way Distributing as the National Accounts Manager for Love’s Travel Centers.  He deeply loved his job and formed lasting friendships with colleagues across the country.  His dedication and integrity left an impact not just on the company, but on everyone he worked with.

Terry gave his life to Christ and became a member of New Testament Baptist Church in Kinston in 2024.  He had great love and respect for his pastor, Tim Daniel, and was deeply touched by the support, gifts, meals, visits, and prayers from his church family.  Their kindness meant the world to him.

Outside of work and church, Terry loved to play golf, cast a line while fishing, and cheer on his favorite teams – the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cincinnati Bengals.  He had a lifelong love for NASCAR (#9) and was passionate about politics, always up for a friendly debate or a deep conversation with those who shared his views (or dared to disagree).  His humor and strong personality made every conversation memorable.

Terry was also affectionately know by many names: TJ, TJo, Ter Bear, and to his beloved wife Pam, he was and always will be ahunkamandadio.

He was truly blessed with an abundance of family and friends who loved him deeply and he will be missed beyond measure.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025 from 1:PM to 3:00PM at Pink Hill Funeral Home (1056 NC Hwy 11 N, Pink Hill, NC 28572) with a funeral service to follow at 3:00PM.  A reception will take place afterward at Pleasant Hill Christian Church (4306 Pleasant Hill Road, Pink Hill, NC 28572).

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Terry’s deep love for his fur babies, donations maybe made to the Lenoir County SPCA at 3200 US Hwy 258, Kinston, NC 28504.  Terry was the best dog dad ever – his pets brought him joy, comfort, and unconditional love.

Terry’s life and legacy are beautifully summed up in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord”.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Terry Lee Johnson, please visit our floral store.