Terry Jay Baxter, affectionately known as TJ, of Kettle Falls, Washington, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2024, in Spokane, Washington, surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 10, 1946, in Colville, Washington, Terry spent his entire life in the Kettle Falls community.

A 1964 graduate of Kettle Falls High School, Terry was a dedicated athlete who excelled in baseball, wrestling, and football. His commitment to service led him to join the U.S. Navy after graduation, where he served with the Seabee Battalion during the Vietnam War. It was during this time that he and Betty, his high school sweetheart, married in 1966 while he was home on leave. Their daughter, Tracy, was born during his deployment, and he was honorably discharged in 1968. Their son, Jeff, was born in 1971.

Terry's career was as varied as his interests. He worked in logging, bartending, snow plowing, and ran a painting business. In 1976, he and Betty founded TJ's Tavern, which became a cornerstone of the community. Terry's meticulous attention to detail in both his tavern and painting business earned him widespread respect and admiration. Jeff took over Baxter's Painting in 1996, and he and Curt managed the business together for years. Jeff continues the Baxter's Painting tradition with the same meticulous care Terry instilled in him.

Terry's community involvement was extensive. He was an active member of the Lions Club, the Kettle Falls Gun Club, the Kettle Falls Fire Department, and served on the City Council. In 1991, he was honored as the KF Grouch, a title he wore with pride as the town's only "true grouch." His adventurous spirit was evident in his hunting trips in northern Canada and fishing excursions off the coast with friends.

Terry lived his life with an open heart and a deep commitment to his family. He often said that the true measure of a man's success is reflected in his family, and he felt profoundly blessed by his own. He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty, at the home; daughter, Tracy (Rod) Vining of Kettle Falls, WA; son, Jeff (Kari) Baxter of Spokane, WA; and seven cherished grandchildren: Jake (Morgan) Vining, Ellie Fu Vining, Taryn, James, Jon, and JJ Baxter. He is also survived by his brother Gary (Diana), numerous nieces, nephews, and Baxter cousins. Terry was preceded in death by his parents, brother Ron, and sister-in-law Sharon.

Terry Jay Baxter lived his life to the fullest, and his legacy of dedication, community spirit, and love for his family will be remembered by all who knew him. Though his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit will forever remain a guiding light in the hearts of those he touched.

Services for Mr. Terry Baxter will begin with at Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Monday, Sept. 2, 2024 followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024 both at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Colville, WA.  The graveside service and niche interment will begin at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024 at the Meyers Falls Cemetery in Kettle Falls, WA. A gathering will begin at 2:00 p.m. at TJ's after the graveside service. Memorial contributions may be given to the Spokane Humane Society.  Please visit the on-line memorial and sign the guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com.  Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory is entrusted with the arrangements.