Terry Leon “Bear” Simerl, 74, of Melbourne, FL, formerly of Memphis, died March 13, 2025 at Holmes Regional Hospital in Melbourne.
He was born the son of Eldon Lee and Lillian Florence (Stone) Simerl on November 11, 1950 in Scotland County.
Terry graduated from Memphis High School in 1968 and the Quincy Technical School at the age of 38.
He married the former Patty Garrison on June 11, 1972 in Memphis. She survives.
Terry was known affectionately as Bear. He was a long-time member of law enforcement, serving as the Memphis City Marshall for several years as well as with the Scotland County Sherriff’s Office.
In his spare time, Bear enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing pool. He especially treasured the time he spent with his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Merrill Sides; brother, Larry Simerl; father and mother-in-law, Leslie and Anna Faye Garrison; a brother-in-law, Don Sides; and great grandchildren: Gavyn Simerl and Oaklynn Shinkle.
He is survived by his wife, Patty, of the home; sons, Mike and Scott; grandchildren: Dyllyn Simerl, Jordan (Kyle) Shinkle, Ashtyn Simerl, Reagyn Simerl. Brandon Simerl and Matthew Simerl; great grandchildren: Braxtyn, Monti, Kyzer, Knoxx and Montana Shinkle; a sister, Carol (Don) Scurlock; sisters-in-law: Sherry Simerl, Daisy Murphy and Kay Garrison; many nieces, nephews and cousins.
4 comments
Patty and family… I’m so sorry to hear of Bear’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
Jim enjoyed playing snooker with Bear. He will be missed by many. Sorry for your loss.
I am sorry for your loss. Bear was sweet, kind, and always a pleasure to be with. For me, he was one of the special people at Memphis High.
So sorry to hear this….Bear was one of our local characters and will never be forgotten……
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