Terry Lee Romaine, a beloved father and grandfather, passed away on October 16, 2025, at the age of 67. He was born on February 9, 1958, in Paducah, Kentucky. Terry will be remembered for his deep love of family, his quick sense of humor, and his kind and generous heart.
Terry graduated from Metropolis High School, where he was a talented multi-sport athlete. His skill on the basketball court stood out most-he set several school records by the time he graduated. He went on to play basketball at Union University, continuing to demonstrate his dedication and passion for the game. After college, Terry pursued a number of successful career paths, eventually returning to school to become an accountant.
Above all, Terry adored his children and grandchildren. They will always remember his adventurous spirit-road trips, spontaneous outings, and the excitement of wherever his curiosity led. When he wasn’t planning his next adventure, he was likely researching or shopping for his next boat.
Terry’s mornings often began with a hearty breakfast. His children fondly recall his love for local diners, where he would order eggs, sausage, and biscuits and gravy. He had a gift for making friends wherever he went and was known as a “regular” at his favorite restaurants-and at nearly every Dairy Queen nearby. His grandchildren especially loved his playful habit of buying far too much ice cream every time he visited.
In 2017, Terry began a long and courageous battle with cancer. He faced every challenge with strength, perseverance, and faith, never giving up until the very end. Throughout his journey, he was supported and loved deeply by his children and brother, as well as by the many friends he made along the way.
Terry is survived by his three children, Rachel (Cody) Pauls of Marion, Illinois, Tyler Romaine of Marion, Illinois, and Jackson Romaine of Boston, Massachusetts; one brother, Marty (Gail) Romaine of Florida and nieces Laura Romaine, Katie Tucker, and Remi Manrique; one sister-in-law, Kristal Romaine of Illinois and niece Taryn Romaine; three grandchildren, Mabree Pauls, Madison Pauls, and Macie Pauls all of Marion, Illinois; and his black lab mix, Ginger.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Lee “Jack” Romaine and Alice Lee Hall Romaine; as well as one brother, Ricky Romaine.
A funeral service will be held at 1 P.M. on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at the Milner and Orr Funeral Home of Paducah. Visitation will begin at 11 A.M. and continue until the funeral service begins.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of gifts to the Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, 2220 Pierce Avenue, Nashville, Tennessee 37232 or to The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, P.O. Box 4486, Houston, Texas 77210-4486.
Share a memory or leave an encouraging message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.
