Terry Lynn Stanforth, 74, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, with his loving family by his side.

Born on November 20, 1951, in Hillsboro, Ohio, Terry was the son of the late William D. Stanforth and Alice (Bratton) Stanforth. He graduated from Lynchburg-Clay High School in 1969 before answering the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy.

Terry proudly served his nation for 22 years, retiring after a distinguished military career marked by dedication, professionalism, and exemplary leadership. His service was recognized with numerous military honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, two Navy Achievement Medals, and the Navy Commendation Medal.

Among the many responsibilities he held during his naval career, Terry served as a Flight Deck Coordinator aboard the USS Enterprise and USS Carl Vinson. In this critical leadership role, he oversaw the safe launch, recovery, maintenance, and readiness of more than 13 F-14A Tomcat fighter aircraft. Ensuring all launches and recoveries were conducted safely and efficiently. A tall task, he also ensured jets that returned were refueled, inspected, repaired and ready for the next mission. He was the final word on the flight deck. Despite the high intensity of his job, he took time to mentor his young sailors and was known for his very likeable style. All the sailors respected and loved working for him, a trait not many FDC’s possessed.

Following his retirement from the Navy, Terry continued his aviation career as an FAA-certified Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Aircraft Mechanic. He worked for Mobile Aerospace and later TIMCO, where he supervised major maintenance inspections on Boeing 747, Boeing 727, and Airbus commercial aircraft. His hard work was rewarded when in his later years he was reassigned from the flightline to an air-conditioned space working in logistics. This would be the job he retired from after his fulfilling career.

Outside of his professional life, Terry found great enjoyment in golfing, fishing, and treasure hunting with his metal detector. He was happiest spending time with family and friends and will be remembered most for his generosity, gentle spirit, quiet strength, and unwavering kindness. His humility, compassion, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Terry was the fifth of seven brothers and is survived by his beloved wife of 34 years, Lynn Stanforth; his daughters, Therese (Brian) Guster and Angela (Tony) Gibbs; his grandchildren, Priscilla Cobb, Jason Basilio, Ronald Eborda Jr., Christopher Eborda, Oliver Eborda, Cristian DeWeese, Brandon (Jamee) Ryals, Ciara Ryals, and Robert Gibbs; and his great-grandchildren, Seraphine Stanforth, Soren Cobb, Jeremy DeWeese, Averiella Ryals, and Elijah Ryals.

He is also survived by his brothers, Tom (Denice) Stanforth of Daytona Beach Shores, Florida; Bill (Carol) Stanforth of Lynchburg, Ohio; Tim Stanforth of Columbus, Ohio; Larry (Diana) Stanforth of Dayton, Ohio; and Jerry (Shelly) Stanforth of Daytona Beach Shores, Florida, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who cherished his love, wisdom, and friendship.

In addition to his parents, Terry was preceded in death by his daughters, Christine (Ron) Eborda and Tracy Lynn Constancio, and by his brother, Richard "Dick" Stanforth.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held at a later date at Mount Olive Cemetery in New Vienna, Ohio, where Terry will be laid to rest beside his beloved mother and brother, in accordance with his wishes.

Terry's life was one of faithful service—to his country, his family, and his community. His legacy of honor, integrity, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.