Terry Jean Kapilla

To define the vivacious life of a woman who gave altruistically to all those she encountered is a feeble undertaking. You see, Terry Jean Kapilla's life was like a drop of rain landing in a puddle of water. Not only did that drop add to one's life, but the ripples that followed touched so many others.

Terry, born on January 9, 1955 in Syracuse NY, was one of 5 children. She grew up on Tipperary Hill, and attended Corcoran High School. She worked at Allied Industrial Laundry until its closure. She then worked for News Channel 9 until its relocation, and then briefly worked for The Charles Stube Company.

It only takes a moment to scroll through Terry's Facebook page to see what she genuinely loved and cherished. No, it wasn't whipped cream! What you will observe are boundless posts to and from family and friends. More than anything, Terry loved people. It was not difficult for her to make friends, as her personality was welcoming, her demeanor caring, and her love notorious. To know Terry, was to be Terry's friend, she knew of no other way.

Perhaps her greatest love was her family. Grandchildren anticipated visits, vacations, treats, and all the spoils that "Mima" would provide, the most evident of these being her love. She cherished and poured her soul into every minute with her grandkids, often disregarding her husband's calculated time of departure for the long trips back to Syracuse.

Speaking of her husband, she adored him as well. They completed each other in many ways. Terry, having been described as outgoing, talkative, and somewhat of a risk taker, her husband quite the opposite: quiet and conservative. She needed him to "tame" her, so to speak!

She also held a special place in her heart for her sons, whom she invested so much of her time and energy in. Even when the days and hours drew thin, Terry was more concerned with her children's obstacles than to talk of the seriousness and complexities of her own. She was always there for them, speaking life into them, and offering her immense wisdom.

Terry was also a loving sister, known to talk to her siblings daily, including her one surviving sister she most affectionately referred to as "Raggy". A great void was left in her heart as many of her siblings had passed before her. She was often in somber reflection of their memories; her pain however, was like an iceberg: she would only let you see the tip.

Terry lived her life without reservations, she certainly did it her way. Reflecting on her life, some will remember her enjoyment of a campfire, a glass of wine, a sandy beach, a pool, or just simple family and social gatherings. She loved the sun, and loved being outdoors during the warmer weather. She was said to have an infectious laugh, and was genuinely fun to be around. Her husband would occasionally refer to her as "The Mayor" since her friendships seemed limitless. Today, I'm sure she is rejoicing with some of those friends and family that she hasn't seen in quite some time.

Terry Jean Kapilla was welcomed home on Monday, June 8, 2020 after a brief illness, including complications involving Covid-19. She is survived by her husband, Joseph E. Kapilla Jr.; Her sons, Douglas E. Smith II (Lori Smith) of Ledgewood NJ, and Chad M. Smith of York, PA; as well as, five grandchildren: Justin Smith, Tyler Smith, Audrey Smith, Evelyn Smith, and Coleman Smith. She is also survived by her sister, Judie Caswell (Harold Caswell); as well as, many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her mother, Mary Couse; father, Ralph Couse; sisters, Barbara Warren, Shirley Hardter and brother, William Couse.

A memorial of life service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to ASPCA of Syracuse.

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