Terry Jellis, 79
Terry Dean Jellis, 79, of Brandon, passed away with family by his side Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025.
Funeral services are planned for 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025 at Spirit of Truth Lutheran Church in Brandon. His family will be present to greet friends and family on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025 at George Boom Funeral Home in Sioux Falls from 5-7 p.m.
Terry was born Aug. 9, 1946 to William and Bernice (Blocker) Jellis. He grew up on the north end of Sioux Falls in a large, loving family, he was the youngest. He spent time with his many brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews and built life-long friendships through his helpful and adventurous spirit.
Terry met Nancy Louise Albers while cruising “the loop” and their love story is one that would stand the test of time. Terry and Nancy were united in marriage on July 10, 1972 in Luverne, Minn. The couple made their first home on a farm near Larchwood, Iowa, where they raised a variety of animals, and they were blessed with two children, Jason and Heather. In 1978, the family moved and made their home on an acreage near Rowena, S.D.
Caretaker, jokester, car-guy, mechanic, truck driver, cowboy and animal lover are just a few words that describe Terry. He loved holidays, getting together with family and friends, and was the first to dress up for the occasion whether it was he and Nancy wearing 50’s outfits for a car club event, or playing Santa. Terry’s goal was always to bring a smile to the face of anyone he would meet.
Terry learned mechanics from family and his step-father, Harold, who was a great mentor and teacher. Terry could take a rusty old shell and turn it into a hot rod and loved to do an occasional burnout. His talent and love of cars were reignited when he and Nancy joined the Great Plains Street Rodders car club, a group of friends who became family as they enjoyed trips to the Black Hills and various car shows. One thing he especially loved was swap meets with his son Jason.
Terry was a loving husband of over 50 years, proud father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend who will be dearly missed.
Grateful for having shared his life are, children Jason Jellis and his wife, Christina, grandchildren Devan and Leah Jellis; Heather Hennings and her husband, Eric, grandchildren Dillon and Kaitlyn Hennings; Tammy Jellis and granddaughter Carlee; and Ricky Jellis; In-laws, Donna Jellis, Steve (Patty) Albers, Darwin (Peggy) Albers, Dennis (Renee) Albers, Ronald (Diane) Albers, Robin (Duane) Dangel, Greg (Debbie) Baete; many nieces and nephews; a host of other relatives, friends and his dog D.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Nancy Jellis; parents, William Jellis and Bernice Jellis (Blocker); step-father, Harold Emmert; siblings, Ronald Jellis, Mona Schunneman, Bonnie Snook, Carol Auringer, Billy Jellis, Betty Blocker, Marilyn Oakland, and Joyce Hurd.
For online condolences, visit georgeboom.com.
