Donald Leon Terry

Donald Leon Terry, 73, of Joplin passed away on Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, while at Mercy Hospital in Joplin. He was born in Monett on Feb. 19, 1952, the son of the late Jerry Leon and Ava Lee (McHolland) Terry. He was united in marriage in Jay, Okla. to Betty Gripka; she survives.
He was a retired schoolteacher who had taught for Diamond, Wheaton and Purdy schools and was a member of the Arnhart Baptist Church in East Purdy.
He is survived by his wife Betty, of the home; one son, Nick Terry, of Maryville; two step-sons, Rick Staponski and Jim Staponski, both of Purdy; two brothers, John Terry and Ken Terry, both of Purdy; three sisters, Jeanne Garrett, of Purdy, Nancy Roller and Jane Sisney, both of Monett; 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Ava; one son, Christopher Terry; one step-son, John Staponski; one brother, Joe Terry and two sisters, Shirley Allen and Patsy Boyd.
Visitation was held from noon to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 27, at the Arnhart Baptist Church in East Purdy. Funeral services immediately followed the visitation, with Rev. Kelly Ross officiating. Burial followed services in the Arnhart Cemetery.
Memorial donations in honor of Donald may be made to the Arnhart Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home in Monett.