Joseph Terry Guthrie

Joseph Terry Guthrie, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, veteran, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, at the age of 78.

Born on September 2, 1948, in Bartow, Florida, he was the son of Johnny and Sarah Guthrie, who preceded him in death, along with his brothers, Johnny Wayne Guthrie and Freddie Mac Guthrie.

Terry proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. He was drafted into the United States Army in March 1967 and left for basic training at Fort Benning, Georgia, on April 5, 1967. After completing basic training, he was stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

On April 5, 1968, Terry began his journey to Long Binh, Vietnam, aboard the Navy transport ship USNS Barrett. He left home as a private and, through his service and dedication, returned home as a sergeant. Exactly one year after leaving for Vietnam, Terry returned to the United States on April 5, 1969. He arrived home at Tampa Airport on Easter Sunday, where his loved ones were waiting for him.

Terry is survived by his loving wife, Gayle Guthrie, whom he married on July 3, 1970. Together, they shared more than 56 years of marriage. Terry was a devoted father to their daughter, Angela Guthrie Hilligoss, and loved his son-in-law, Shane, who brought great joy to his life.

But perhaps no title brought Terry greater pride than being a Poppy. His granddaughters, Lindsey and Kara, were truly the lights of his life. There was no greater joy for Terry than his granddaughters, and the love and pride he had for them was immeasurable.

Terry was also a lifelong animal lover. Over the years, he had many beloved dogs, each of whom held a special place in his heart and was very much a part of his family.

He is also survived by his brother, Larry Guthrie, as well as many loving cousins, including Cecilia Speight and Jackie Harrison, extended family members, and friends.

Terry spent almost three decades working for Publix Super Markets, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dedication. He spent the majority of his career as a truck driver, logging more than one million safe miles. He worked long hours and took great pride in his work, always motivated by his commitment to providing for the family he loved so deeply.

To many, Terry was known for owning the beautiful red 1966 GTO. It brought him tremendous joy. You could often find him in the garage working on it, tinkering with something, or simply sitting outside and waving to neighbors as they passed by. Those simple moments were part of who Terry was and will be remembered fondly by those who knew him.

Terry loved to joke and had a wonderful sense of humor. Like his brothers, he was a jokester, and sometimes he could keep a straight face so well that you weren’t quite sure whether he was serious or pulling your leg.

Above all else, Terry’s life was defined by the way he loved his family and cared for others. He was known for his extraordinary generosity and was the kind of person who would do anything he could for someone in need. Fittingly, one of Terry’s final wishes was to donate his truck to a veteran in need—a final act of kindness that brought together his generous heart and the lasting importance of his own military service.

Terry leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, generosity, hard work, and unconditional love. His presence will be deeply missed, but the love he gave so freely to his family and friends will remain with them always.

A celebration of Terry’s life will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home in Bartow, Florida.

Terry will be laid to rest with honor at Florida National Cemetery on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.