Theodore Terry was born to Lewis and Marion Terry, Philadelphia, in September, 1926. He graduated from Germantown High in 1944 and started college the next week. His education was interrupted by service in the U.S. Navy, Nov. 1944 - Aug. 1946. He came to Lehigh University to do graduate work in 1950 and stayed to teach for 43 years. He was a member of American Society of Mechanical Engineers and was faculty advisor to the student section for 13 years. He worked with the Center for Marine Studies and the Marine Geotechnical Laboratory. He participated in research studies to the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and Gulf of Mexico, including dives in the Alvin and Deep Quest submarines.

He married Betty Lou Straughn in 1954. Surviving are three children, Bonnie, Jonathan (Lynn) and Peter (Margaret); grandchildren, Daniel (Megan), Kristen (Bryce) and Rachel (Tim); great-grandchildren, Sophie, William, Jane and Adam as well as nieces, nephews, and their families. He is predeceased by his sisters, Louise, Marguerite, Jean and brother David. Ted and Betty were members of the former St. Matthews Lutheran Church where he served on church council for many years and taught Sunday School. He loved taking pictures, running, and riding his bike. He was a part of BIKE of Bethlehem and the Lehigh Wheelmen for many years. He volunteered at Habitat for Humanity & Meals on Wheels.

He passed on March 28, 2026 at home. Services will be held at Pearson Funeral Home on April 6, 2026, calling hours at 10 am, followed by service at 11. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Habitat for Humanity or Meal of Wheels.