Terry Michael Leiter, a devoted husband, stepfather, grandfather, brother, pug daddy, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends, on October 15, 2026, at the age of 70.

Terry was born on March 4, 1956, in Arcadia, Florida, to the late Joseph M. Leiter and Zena Belle Pullen Leiter. He graduated from DeSoto High School in 1974 and dedicated 35 years to GPW Hospital, where he became a licensed practical nurse (LPN). Known for his calm, gentle nature and cool demeanor, Terry brought comfort and kindness to everyone around him.

Terry was an attendee of Calvary Baptist Church, where he could always be counted on to clean the church, drive someone to an appointment, pick up groceries, mow a yard, serving quietly and generously, never seeking recognition.

Above all, Terry treasured his family. He was the loving husband of Margo Leiter for 29 years and a proud stepfather and grandfather who lovingly claimed the title of “World’s Greatest Grandpa.” He made countless memories with his six grandchildren through stories, movies, swimming, and even watching the Dishscape channel on television.

Terry was highly educated and like a walking dictionary. He enjoyed strategic computer games, political news, war and historical books, and sitting in the backyard watching martins, hummingbirds, squirrels, and other creatures. He even hand-fed ants to the lizards! He also loved going out to dinner with family and friends, especially when hot wings were on the menu.

He treasured time with his brother Joe and sister Suzanne’s families. More recently, pool parties with his big brother Joe, Patty, Tristan, and Tim brought laughter and created new memories. Inevitably, someone would say, “I wonder what the poor folks are doing?”—a familiar saying passed down from their daddy and cherished through the years.

Terry was unmistakably himself in his cool-dude Converse tennis shoes, jeans, and T-shirt—unless someone made him dress up!

Many anniversaries were spent at the beach, where Terry and Margo enjoyed beautiful sunsets and made lasting memories together with friends and family.

Terry is survived by his wife, Margo Leiter; stepson Mathew Gaie and wife, Esmeralda; stepdaughter Summer Garner and husband, Matthew; six grandchildren, Matthew Jr., Zakarie, Leland and Jett Garner; Anabelle and Sophia Gaie; brother Joe Leiter and wife, Patty; sister Suzanne Morton and husband, Gary; two nieces; one nephew; and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph M. Leiter and Zena Belle Pullen Leiter; his uncles Paul Pullen, Curtis Pullen and wife, Mary Edith, John Pullen, and Herman Pullen and wife, Dorothy; and his niece, Zena Belle Leiter Mulkey.

Terry will be deeply missed, but the memories of his humor, kindness, faith, and love for family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Arrangements are being handled by Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Home.

A celebration of Terry’s life will be held on Tuesday October 20, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church, 48 15th Avenue, Arcadia, Florida, with Brother Chuck Poe officiating. Visitation begins at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will follow at Joshua Creek Cemetery.