AUBURN - Terry L. Vanfleet, 61, of Auburn, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home surrounded by the love of his family on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. Terry was born in Weedsport, N.
Y., son of the late Richard H. Vanfleet Sr.
, and Pearl A. Gregory. Terry resided most of his life between Auburn, Scipio Center and his second home in the Philippines.
He graduated from Auburn High School, class of 1982. In 1986 he started work at McQuay International, where after many years of service in management, he later retired. Terry took pleasure in boating on Owasco Lake.
He valued being with family and friends at his camp, where they could also appreciate the lake life. He was an avid traveler. During his numerous visits to the Philippines, he grew to love the country, motivating him to build a second home there.
He particularly enjoyed his visits there, especially during the cold New York winter months. You could often find Terry relaxing in his garage, where friends and family would stop by to visit and chat for hours. Terry will be remembered by his children as a wonderful, devoted father.
He was a dependable, loyal friend to those he met. He made it a priority to motivate others to perform at their highest level. In addition to his parents, Terry was predeceased by his sister, May A.
Vanfleet; and his brother, James V. Vanfleet (Tiny). He is survived by his wife, Charchel Vanfleet, whom he met on his travels to the Philippines; sons, Jesse Vanfleet (Amy), Mitchell Vanfleet (Brittany), Joseph Vanfleet (Lea), and Matt Murphy; his daughter, Tiffany Gentile (Ted); his grandchildren, Carter and Lainey Vanfleet, Madeline and Liam Vanfleet, Teddy and Andrew Gentile and Leia and Lana Murphy; his sister, Rose M.
Vanfleet; and brother, Richard H. Vanfleet Jr.; along with several nieces; nephews; and countless friends.
As per Terry's wishes, there will be no services. A celebration of life will be held by the family at their convenience. A heart of gold stopped beating, working hands at rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best. Leaves and flowers wither, the golden sun may set, but the hearts that loved you dearly are the ones that won't forget. Never goodbye, until we meet again.
Condolences may be offered at whitechapelfh.com . Sign up to get the most recent local obituaries delivered to your inbox.
.
Top
Terry L. Vanfleet

AUBURN - Terry L. Vanfleet, 61, of Auburn, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home surrounded by the love of his family on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.