Terry Lynn Stuart, 62, of State College, died unexpectedly in his home July 24, 2016.
Born May 6, 1954 in Kinston, North Carolina, he was the son of the late Lois Bowersox Stuart and James E. Stuart of State College, who survives.
Terry was a 1972 graduate of State College Area High School where he enjoyed participating in Thespians. After high school he held various jobs, eventually moved to Florida and lived with his church group. Later he moved to Kentucky where he rented a room in his landlady’s home and continued working various jobs until he moved back home to live with his parents in State College in 2002. He began work at Penn State’s East Halls dormitories where he gathered recycling. Terry retired from PSU in 2013. In 2011 his family found the perfect apartment in downtown State College at Addison Court where he was able to live independently for his remaining years, which was a source of great pride to him.
As an adult Terry taught himself to play piano by ear, and although he was never able to read a note of music, he was divinely gifted with the ability to play many styles of music beautifully, even composing his own pieces in recent years. He most enjoyed playing classical music and hymns and played for a number of weddings and for many church services throughout his life. At home in Addison Court he could often be found in the community room playing for whomever cared to stop in and listen. He had many close, loving friends there whom he entertained for many hours with his piano playing. He also enjoyed singing and playing in shows performed with friends and neighbors for the entertainment of fellow residents. Terry also loved watching old movies from the 20's, 30's and 40's. He was a very cheerful, positive, and deeply spiritual man who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
In addition to his father, he is survived by a brother, Tracy J. Stuart of Milroy; a sister, Kathleen E. Loewen and husband Mike of State College; a nephew, Jamie Tibbott of Woodland; a niece, Annie Reynolds of State College; and a great aunt, Gertrude Wiant of State College. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lois B. Stuart, of State College.
Friends and family will be received 1:00-3:00 PM, Wednesday, August 3, 2016 at Unity Church of Jesus Christ, 140 N. Gill Street, State College. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 PM with The Reverend Harold McKenzie officiating. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made in Terry’s memory to the Unity Church of Jesus Christ, 145 N. Gill St., State College, PA 16801; or to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, of which he was a long time supporter.
A guest book can be signed or condolences sent to the family www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com.