April 11, 1933 – December 28, 2025
William E. Terry, 92, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025 in Palo Alto, California. A third generation Californian, Bill was born on April 11, 1933 in San Jose. He spent his infancy in Carmel and was baptized at Carmel Mission.
Bill graduated from Santa Clara University in 1955 and went on to serve his country as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army at Fort Sill from 1955 to 1957. His early commitment to service would become a defining theme throughout his life.
Following his military service, Bill embarked on a distinguished career in business and philanthropy. He rose through the ranks at Hewlett-Packard to become Executive Vice President and Board Director, retiring in 1995, contributing significantly to the company’s growth and innovation during a pivotal era for Silicon Valley. That same year, he was appointed Chairman of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, where he served until 1996. His leadership helped shape the foundation’s mission of community engagement and charitable giving.
Bill remained deeply connected to his alma mater throughout his life. He was appointed to the University of Santa Clara Regents in 1983 and later joined the Board of Trustees in 1997. He also served on the Advisory Committee of the SCU Engineering School, offering guidance and support to future generations of engineers.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill was known for his unwavering integrity and deep compassion. He believed that true fulfillment came not only from giving but from being personally involved – by leading, counseling, coaching, and listening. Whether through boardrooms or community halls, he lived a life rooted in grace and gratitude.
Bill found joy in simple pleasures as well. He was an avid stamp collector who appreciated history through philately. He loved hiking and found peace in nature’s quiet beauty. Music brought him comfort and inspiration throughout his life.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Jan; his children Cathy (Krauss), Carol (Mowat), Tom and Christopher; his grandchildren Winston (Heather Krauss) and Ellie, and great grandson Jay; and his brother Larry, and his nieces and nephew.
May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire lives of purpose and compassion.
