Obituary of Terri Wayne Durrin

In Loving Memory of SFC Terri “Jake” Wayne Durrin: A Life of Service, Love and Friendship

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of SFC Terri “Jake” Wayne Durrin, a distinguished soldier, devoted husband and stepfather, loving son and brother, and cherished friend to many. Terri’s journey on this earth came to a close on 17 August 2023 after 24 years of dedicated service in the United States Army, Military Police, 16 years as a defense contractor at DARPA, and leaving behind a legacy of love, honor, commitment and the bonds of genuine friendship.

Terri was born 7 August 1959 in Washington, DC, raised in upstate New York, and from a young age he demonstrated a strong sense of duty and an unwavering desire to make a positive impact. Enlisting in the US Army in 1979 he embarked on a remarkable career that saw him serving in Asia, Europe and across the United States. Terri’s years of service were marked by his unfaltering commitment to the principles of duty, honor and integrity.

Rising through the ranks he achieved the title of Sergeant First Class, he earned the respect and admiration of his fellow soldiers and superiors alike. His time in the military took him to different parts of the world, and across the United States where he forged lasting friendships and contributed significantly to the defense of our country.

While proudly serving DARPA, Terri’s journey led him to a love that transcended cultures and backgrounds. He met and fell in love with soulmate Ruby. Their union was a testament to the power of love, respect and devotion. Terri’s love for Ruby was matched only by the love and care he extended to Ruby’s daughter Bianca, who became an integral part his life and heart.

Terri’s military service was just not a career but a calling, and his camaraderie extended beyond the battlefield. His fellow veterans became the lifelong friends who shared experiences, understood sacrifices, and stood united by the unique bond forged in the service.

Terri had big heart. He was thoughtful and he was willing to listen and offer a helping hand and he made a circle of trust that enriched the life of all those who had the privilege of knowing him .

In his retirement years, Terri settled in Tampa, FL and continued to embrace the life with the very same enthusiasm and zest for life that characterized his service. He reveled in the beauty of simple moments, treasuring the time spent with Ruby, Bianca and their dog Luna. His laughter, great sense of sarcasm and wisdom brightened happy hours in the Glory Days at Barcroft Plaza, The American Legion Post 85, and the Ruskin FL VFW gatherings and his stories of adventures overseas an the brotherhood of his fellow soldiers left an indelible impression on those who listened.

Terri was an avid marathon runner (he qualified for the Boston marathon twice), had a natural affinity for the serenity in fishing (and cold beer), the NASCAR races (and cold beer) and the thrill of shooting sports. His love for these activities were intertwined with his enthusiasm for disaster prepping and survival.

SFC Terri Jake Durrin leaves behind a legacy that will endure the hearts of his beloved wife, Ruby; stepdaughter Bianca; his brothers, sisters, nephews and nieces; in laws and friends who became his extended families and fellow veterans. His memory lives on in their hearts, of the stories shared, the lessons learned, and the bonds of friendship he cultivated and nurtured throughout his life.

A memorial service will be held in honor of the rich life of SFC Terri Durrin will on 1 September 2023 at 1pm at the Advent Funeral Homes in Falls Church. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests

donations instead to the BBC Foundation for Children, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that was dear to Terri’s heart.

Rest in peace, rest in paradise, SFC Terri “Jake” Durrin. Your love, courage, humor, sarcasm, kindness and generosity and enduring legacy of service will forever inspire us all.

“May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind always be at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields

and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”