Terry honored at luncheon
Rosa Terry worked in the Davidson County Judicial System for 26 years.
{Kassaundra Shanette Lockhart/Davidson Local}
Faithful, classy, strong, helpful, solid and steadfast are a few of the words used to describe Davidson County District Court Judge Trial Coordinator, Rosa Terry, at her retirement luncheon on Friday, July 30. With 38 years of service to the judicial system of North Carolina in Guilford and Davidson counties, Terry is eager to begin her new chapter.
Amongst a slew of former colleagues, retired judges, co-workers, friends and family, Terry was celebrated for her tenacity, optimism and friendship. At the Davidson County Courthouse, countless stories were shared by people who’ve worked closely with the mother of five over the years.
“You’ve always had a unique way of looking at things and bringing out a smile,” commented Paula Teague, Terry’s longtime co-worker. “You’ve taught me so much. I’ll always remember the funny stories. Thanks for being there for me all these years. You’re more than a co-worker. You’re the meaning of a true friend.”
District Court Judge Mary Covington called her irreplaceable. Superior Court Judge Lori Hamilton honed in on Terry’s devotion. Noting their decades of friendship, District Court Judge Rosalind Baker stated she would miss her, professionally, but “would still see her all the time.”
Retired Chief District Court Judge Wayne L. Michael presided over the festivities on Friday afternoon. Having worked with Terry for over two decades, he expressed his thoughts about how everyone needs someone who can serve as a moral compass in their life. “Anytime there’s a decision to be made, big or small, I think what would Rosa do?”
Throughout the speeches, many reflected on Terry’s commitment to her community. Currently, she serves on the board of directors for the Focus on Leadership, City of Lexington Utilities Commission, Davidson County NAACP, Wards Work Well-PAC and as the Supreme Grand Associate Matron of the Supreme Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star.
“I admire your care for the community and your professionalism,” said Lexington Police Department Chief Robby Rummage. “Thank you for your service. I know it’ll continue because you love it [the community] too much not to.”
Pic Clark, president of the local chapter of the NAACP, explained how Terry has always helped “keep him on track” since he returned home from the military in the early 1990s. He predicted within the next two years she will become NAACP president.
Terry, a High Point native, was all smiles throughout the afternoon as a steady stream of well-wishers converged on courtroom nine to participate in the momentous occasion. Hailing from a family that included five sisters and four brothers, the daughter of the late Lester Rorie, Sr., Lillie Rorie and Mary Rorie, is a graduate of High Point Central High School and Winston-Salem State University. Additionally, she is the wife of Ronald and the grandmother of nine.
Representing the group that’s witnessed her evolution the longest, her family, was her eldest sister, Minnie Gantt. She chose not to focus on the past as she encouraged her sister with wise words for the future. “Stay inspired and get lots of rest. Don’t be afraid of it. This is a great ride. I didn’t come to preach but I’m reminded of a few scriptures: Psalm 84:11 and Joshua 1:9. We, your siblings, are proud of you. I thank God for you, sis, and I wish you the best.”
Terry’s daughter, Tara, had these words to share about her mother. “She’s truly the epitome of a phenomenal woman. Anyone who knows or has the pleasure of meeting her can confirm she’s a rare gem. Her heart overflows with love for her family, church and community. I can only pray that God allows me to have her spirit as I get older in life.”
Before dessert was served and Terry took her earned seat in the rocking chair adorned with balloons in the courtroom, she addressed those in attendance. “I’ve enjoyed doing what I’ve done. My husband, my sisters and brothers, up until today, kept telling me ‘you’re not retiring.’ We won’t believe it until we see it happen. It’s happening, guys. I’ve often talked about my job, the people I’ve worked with and met. Every one of you has made that very special for me. I’ll never forget you all. Thank you for the 38 years.”
