Terry Joe Lanier

Mr. Terry Joe Lanier, 61, of Snow Hill, NC, passed away on Friday, February 28, 2025, in Laurinburg, NC.

The Life and Legacy of Terry “JOE” Lanier

 Terry Joe Lanier, affectionately known as “Joe”, was born on April 7, 1963, to the late Walter Wayne Lanier and Cora France Moye Lanier in Snow Hill, North Carolina. The youngest of nine children.

At the age of eight years old, Terry Joe and his family moved to New Jersey, later returning to North Carolina. From a young age, Terry Joe was full of energy, love, curiosity, and was devoted to those around him.  He was always eager to try new things and embrace every adventure life had to offer. Whether learning to ride ponies, graduating to horseback riding, or mastering the art of riding a unicycle and jumping on a pogo stick—Terry Joe was known for his fearless spirit. He was the only African American in Greene County who could ride a unicycle, a testament to his unique abilities and determination.

Terry Joe had a heart of gold. His kindness knew no bounds, and he would go out of his way to help anyone in need. His love for children was unmatched whether biological or not, he treated everyone like family. When Terry Joe loved, he loved deeply and passionately, always giving his whole heart.

Terry Joe received his education in Greene County and, in 1982, attended Breckenridge School in Morganfield, Kentucky, where he trained to operate heavy equipment. Upon returning home, he worked various jobs before beginning a long career with Lanier Construction for eight years, Global Construction for six years, and later Step Construction, where he was the VP of Operations from 2010 to present, which were all owned by his cousins. There was no job too big or too small for Terry Joe when he was called upon, he was there with a willingness to work hard and do his best.

Terry Joe joined St. Mary Free Will Baptist Church in 2013, where he became a faithful member and devoted his life to the Lord. His love for God was evident in his actions and in the way he cared for others.

Terry Joe departed this life on February 28, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and a well-lived life. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Lanier and Cora Moye Lanier; children, Terry Jermaine Lanier, Jeremy Lanier, Adrienna Timmons; granddaughter Ma’Kaylah Lanier; three brothers, Ronnie Lanier, Alexander Lanier, and Walter Lanier; two sisters, Ora Lanier and Ella Atkinson.

Terry leaves to cherish his memories: spouse, Sheila Lanier; four daughters, Sheneika Hill (Rashawn Murrell), Tierra Lanier, Sherba Lanier, Shomarrie Parker; five sons, Terry Lanier Jr. (Lashundra), Andre Hill, Tevin Lanier, Kenneth Timmons, and Steve Davis; four sisters, Geraldine Williams, Sandra Lanier, Fannie Ebron, and Ella Williams; one god-sister, Jean Dixon; two uncles Winfred Moye and Herman Moye (Ann); one aunt, Inez Moye; 37 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; beloved cousin and best friend Carl Lanier; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Heavenly Arms Family Mortuary & Cremation Services, 8482 E. Marlboro Rd. Suite G Farmville, NC 27828

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