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Truman Stickney "Rusty" Terry Jr.

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Truman Terry Obituary

Truman "Rusty" Stickney Terry, Jr. TUCSON, AZ - Truman S. "Rusty" Terry, 68, of Tucson, passed away on April 10, 2016. He was born in Charleston, SC on August 6, 1947. Rusty was an extremely gifted musician. Those around him took notice of his musical abilities at a very early age. In the 5th grade, he was playing drums in the St. Andrews High School marching band, and by 9th grade he was performing professionally. He left Charleston in 1965 to attend the University of Arizona on a full-ride music scholarship. He was fortunate enough to earn a living doing what he loved. Rusty was charismatic, kind and funny. His bright smile and infectious laugh touched all those that had the privilege of meeting him. He will long be remembered for his caring and generous nature. He is preceded in death by his parents, Truman Terry and Agnes (Oliver) Terry. He is survived by his daughters, Tiffany (Stephen) Lee and Lucy (Jim) Garner; eight grandchildren, Tabi, Evelyn, Kevin, and Mason Lee; Erin, Kelly, Lindsey, and Luke Garner; and siblings, Claire Copeland, Ginger Terry, and Ricky Terry. A Memorial Service, followed by a luncheon and celebration of life, will be held on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at 12:00pm at LDS Chapel, 105 N. Norton Ave., Tucson, AZ 85719. A memorial service will also be held in Charleston, SC at a future date. Arrangements under the direction of Desert Rose Heather Cremation & Burial, Tucson, AZ. Visit our guestbook at www.legacy.com/obituaries/ charleston

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charleston Post & Courier from Apr. 23 to Apr. 24, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
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Duane Gibson

April 7, 2019

Cannot forget his energy in music and his smile. My angel bride and I had the honor of seeing him many times around Tucson. Hard to believe they are both gone a few years now.

Charmaine Hill

May 7, 2017

You were a legend in the Tucson music scene of our youth. Thank you for those great times. It was so good to hear you again and see your amazing smile. (Nov. 2012). RIP

duane gibson

April 15, 2017

I see guest book will be closed soon. Must add that it was always pleasure and fun to see Rusty and the bands he played in. Also having my angel bride with me on those occasions was such a joy. Both rest in peace.

Bob Folsom

May 5, 2016

I came to know Rusty when I joined the Leonard School of Music Charleston Youth Band in the 10th grade. I was a late comer to the Leonard School and never quite became part of the long time gang but I quickly recognized his skill and musicianship. His gregarious personality was always a joy to be around. Somehow it was an odd but appropriate fit to his great gift and skill. The World lost a great gifted person when we loss Rusty.

Drew Herring

April 26, 2016

Man, I can still hear Rusty singing Billy Stewart's "Summertime" as it floated through the rafters of the old Folly Beach Pier on a breezy Sunday afternoon.You know, a simpler time, when things made more sense in the world. May God's peace and comfort be upon his family during the days ahead. Sincerely -

Yvonne Coleman

April 24, 2016

I met Rusty at St. Andrew's Jr. High at recess where he was playing drums and singing to entertain us. We were friends and and in the band together through high school. We renewed that friendship a few years ago and it was if it were only yesterday and not years since we had talked. I am missing my caring, funny and talented friend. My condolences to his family - he was so proud of his daughters and spoke with such love for them and his grandchildren. I know he is playing in that heavenly band.

Bryan Rumph

April 24, 2016

I met Rusty when I was about 13 years old. He was the older half brother of Ricky Terry. What a great person and so friendly. His sense of humor was wonderful. He treated me like a family member and like a brother. Rest in peace Rusty. The world has lost a great person and a talented musician.

Phyllis Boardman

April 23, 2016

I knew Rusty from my days in the U of A band. What a fun guy and great drummer... I moved away and then moved back and then had him as a patient years later. When I went to see him, he was just as friendly as when he was in college. We shared our memories of being in the first Super Bowl halftime show...now 50 years ago and shared that fact with all those around us!!
Besides his musicianship, he was a jovial all around good guy! Rest in Peace Rusty...I will always remember you with a smile.
My condolences to his family.

Steve Barnett

April 22, 2016

I met Rusty ~ 1980 through his effort to immortalize 17 songs written and performed by jazz guru Steve Solomon, his good friend and bandmate in "The Poppies".  Recorded by Rusty in his basement studio, they became known as the "Rusty Tapes" and have brought 30+ years of enjoyment to many of us.

Through the years, sometimes too much time would pass before we would see each other, but Rusty always greeted me like I was a sight for sore eyes or a long lost brother.  Made me feel good, but he was like that to most everyone.  He'll be missed.  RIP,  ~Steve

Sharon Kimbrel

April 22, 2016

I've know Rusty since the days at the Dunes. I met him personally when he visited my husband and me and became a member of my husband's band. Rest in peace my dear friend. You will be missed. Sharon

April 20, 2016

I've known Rusty for 40 years and remember the first time I heard him play at FC Lamar's. What great drumming and a fantastic drum solo. We drummed together and recorded music together all these years. He could also sing any style of music with a lot of soul. We're all going to miss him. Thoughts , prayers, and love for the family. Dave Jeffrey

U of A Percussion

Rick Johnston

April 20, 2016

I played snare drum along with Rusty in the U of A band and Percussion Ensamble. He was always laughing and fun to be around during practices and pre-game & halftime shows during football season. He was an excellent drummer and a good leader of the drum section. We were both in 'rock' bands back then and his group had a great reputation. I was sorry to read of his passing. If heaven has a band, I'm sure he will be part of it.

duane gibson

April 20, 2016

I will never forget the first time My wife and I saw Rusty playing around town with John Chastain and with other groups. He was so cool, funny, and just a super nice man. My angel bride is not here now but she really love him and I am sure she is there with him now. So sad to here this especially just to find out getting the daily obits by email. RIP and keep on drumming!
Sincerely
Duane Gibson PDQ Records

Michael Parrott

April 20, 2016

Every time I'd watch Rusty play it was a drum lesson. He was one of my inspirations. Rusty made me a better drummer. RIP Rusty

Arthur (Skip) Dawson

April 16, 2016

I knew Rusty from St. Andrews High. A great drummer and an even greater person.

Hannah Clark

April 16, 2016

My husband and I have known Rusty for a number of years here in Tucson. He was a man with a big heart and big soul.

Cynthia Margiotta (Thomas)

April 16, 2016

I knew Rusty at St. Andrews High School. He was a talented musician. Years later, I taught his daughter, Lucy, at Ashley River Creative Arts Elementary School. Rusty brought his drums to school and Lucy and he put on a show for our class. I know Rusty is missed by all. Rest in peace.

Albert Huggins

April 16, 2016

Rusty, you were a great friend. Glad I got to spend time with you during high school days. Also with you playing on Folly Pier. You and your music will be sorely missed . Thoughts and prayers are going out to your family.

Willa Burdette

April 15, 2016

I knew Rusty at St. Andrew's and marveled at his ability to make those drums come alive. He loved life and made others happy to be around him. I am so sorry for your loss. Willa Burdette

truman stickney terry,jr.

April 13, 2016

a lot of people know him better as rusty and not Truman Stickney terry, jr. people may not recognize him my this name especially musician friends. my heart goes out to his kids and grandkids and any family out there I am missing. i cannot wait to see you. love and prayers!! aunt ginger

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Celebration of Life

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105 N. Norton Ave, Tucson, AZ

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LDS Chapel

105 N. Norton Ave, Tucson, AZ

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Desert Rose Heather Cremation & Burial

1040 North Columbus Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85711

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