Terry Lavelle Anderson, a true southern gentleman whose life and work impacted an array of individuals, died March 15, 2025, at his residence at the age of 73.

Terry Anderson was born on October 7, 1951, to Mr. and Mrs. John Lavelle Anderson of Columbia, MS.  The eldest sibling of three, Terry learned work ethic on the family farm and a love for the outdoors.  His intense curiosity emerged at a young age and motivated him throughout his life.

Terry was a graduate of Columbia High School where he excelled in academics.  He was voted Senior Class President where he earned the nickname "Super President" in addition to "Most Handsome" and "Most Courteous." His accolades continued as a member of Boys State, Science Club, Student Council, Safety Council and Who's Who.  He was humble yet proud of his achievements as an Eagle Scout with a Pro-Marksman Award, selected to attend the National Scout Jamboree in Valley Forge as well as the Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico.

After high school, Terry attended the University of Mississippi and joined Sigma Chi Fraternity.  He went on to earn several degrees through the years: a B.S. from the College of Engineering at Mississippi State University, a B.S. from the University of Southern Mississippi and a MA of Science from the University of Mississippi. He proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Marine Corps and earned the rank of Corporal.

After an Honorable discharge, Terry joined Allen & Hoshall in Jackson, MS and began his career as a Civil Engineer. He then formed a new partnership in Clinton, MS called Anderson, Deas, and Eldridge which later became Anderson Engineers. He moved the firm to Hattiesburg, MS and then to Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. In the latter part of his career he sold the firm which became Apex Engineering Group where he stayed on for several years as the principal engineer before retiring.

The true love of Terry's life was Jan Matulich Anderson, his wife of 48 years.  Their family grew with a son, Matthew K. Anderson, and daughter, Julia Kathryn "Katie" Anderson as did the memories.   The family settled in Clinton, MS where Terry started his firm, Anderson Engineers.  Terry was the President of the Rotary Club and an active member of The First United Methodist Church. Terry's legacy as an engineer spanned across the South from Clinton to Hattiesburg to Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, eventually returning to Columbia, MS. Terry attended First United Methodist Church where he served on the Board of Trustees.

Terry was an Outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and riding Tennessee Walking Horses with his son, duck hunting the MS flyways, scalloping, fly fishing and boating the waters in Indian Pass, Florida.  He was a passionate aviator as a licensed pilot collecting planes through the years. Terry loved his Harley Davidson and made multiple summer trips across the country.  After retiring, his days were consumed with birdwatching, diving into literature and afternoon sunsets with Maggie, his chocolate lab. He delighted in the kitchen, dancing with his wife, and attempting to "master" his personal New Orleans-style gumbo recipe.  He lived by the quote in his Senior Year Annual: "Those who meet him are never disappointed; those who know him never regret it."

He was preceded in death by his Father, John Lavelle Anderson. He is survived by his Wife, Jan Matulich Anderson of Columbia, MS; Son, Matt Anderson (Kirby) of Hattiesburg, MS; Daughter, Katie Anderson Alligood (David) Baton Rouge, LA; Mother, Louise Anderson of Columbia, MS; five Grandchildren, Sophie Arnold, Arden Wood Anderson, Isabelle Anderson, Anna-Kate Alligood and Cooper Alligood; Brother, Gregory Anderson of Atlanta, GA; Sister, Cheree Dumas (Joe) Chattanooga, TN; Nephew, Julian Matulich; Brother-In-Law, Joe Matulich (Stacy) and his loving Uncles, Aunts and cousins.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family has requested a donation in honor of Terry Anderson be made to the Terry Anderson Family Endowed Scholarship for Mississippi State University Department of Civil Engineering.  MSU Foundation P.O. Box 6149 Mississippi State, MS 39762.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Hathorn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Friends may sign an online guest register book at www.hathornfuneralhome.com