Terrence (Terry) L Welles Sr passed away at home in Lake City, Fl., surrounded by his family on Saturday July 22, 2023.He was born in Arcadia, FL on October 28, 1942, to the late WG "Billie" and Barbara "Bobbie" Welles.

Terry spent 4 years in the United States Airforce. After his service he returned home to become a businessman but, the ranching blood was strong and soon took his heart back to his roots. He was a cattleman until his retirement. He was a member of many Veterans and Fraternal Organizations He served as a DeSoto County Commissioner for 8 years.

His longest community service was the rodeo from grounds keeping to president, he only missed 3 in his lifetime.

He was extremely proud of his life-long service to his country and community. His mother took him in a basket to the first rodeo that his grandfather and Father started that is known today as The Arcadia All Florida Championship Rodeo, "The Grandaddy of 'Em All."

He loved to hunt, fish, boat, airboat and fly (wings or blades) and to be airborne. Gifted with a quick wit laced with deep-rooted southern charm, he loved a good joke as well as gathering family and friends to tell stories keeping everyone well entertained and laughing. Traveling was always an adventure and meeting new friends was a gift.

Terry is survived by his wife of 30 years, Sue "Susie". 2 daughters, Windi (George) Inman, Arcadia, Crystal Brown, Lake City, Fl. 3 granddaughters, Madison Brown, Lake City, FL, Briona Joiner, Ft. Myers, Fl., Abby Brown, Lake City, FL 2 grandsons, William "Major" Welles and Kayo Joiner, Ft Myers, 5 great grandchildren. His 4 nieces, 3 "favorite" nieces, 1 "city girl". He took many others under his wing as his own children.

He was preceded in death by his brother W G "Kayo" Welles, IV, and his son Terrence L "Kayo" Welles II

Visitation of family and friends will be held, Friday, July 28, 2023, from 5:00 -7:00 pm at the chapel of Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes, 50 N. Hillsborough Ave., Arcadia.

Funeral Services will be at Arcadia Rodeo Arena, 2450 NE Roan St., Arcadia on Saturday July 29, 2023, 11:00 am. with Rev. Ted Land Officiating.

Burial will be private at Joshua Creek Cemetery with Military Honors.

Online condolences can be made at www.pongerkaysgrady.com

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes & Cremation Services have been entrusted with the arrangements.