We honor here members, friends and supporters of the American Council of the Blind who have impacted our lives in many wonderful ways. If you would like to submit a notice for this column, please include as much of the following information as possible.
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Deaths that occurred more than six months ago cannot be reported in this column.
Theresa Marie “Terry” Petrey
June 28, 1961 – December 6, 2025
Mrs. Theresa Marie "Terry" Petrey, 64, of Jacksonville, Ark., passed away on December 6, 2025. Born on June 28, 1961, in Austin, Texas, Terry lived a life marked by resilience, service, and deep devotion to her family and community.
Terry was the daughter of Dr. Walter K. Hanak and Dorothy Hanak. Her early years were spent moving across various places before her family eventually settled in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. There, she attended the West Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind in Romney, a place that would shape her lifelong commitment to advocacy and education. She later pursued higher education at Shepherd College before transferring to Marshall University, where she earned her degree through the West Virginia Regents Bachelor of Arts program. It was during her time at Marshall that she met the love of her life, Bennie Petrey.
After marrying Bennie, the couple lived in West Virginia for several years before Terry pursued specialized schooling in Little Rock, Ark. at Lions World Services for the Blind. In 1992, they made Little Rock their permanent home. That same year marked the beginning of Terry's distinguished 33-year career with the Veterans Administration — a role through which she served countless veterans with dedication and compassion.
Terry's commitment to public service extended beyond her professional life. For decades, she was actively involved with the Arkansas Council of the Blind, working tirelessly on community outreach initiatives to support visually impaired individuals across the state. Her leadership and advocacy were recognized at the highest levels when Governor Asa Hutchinson appointed her to serve on the Board of the Division of State Services for the Blind on June 30, 2021 — a position she held with honor until her passing.
Faith played a central role in Terry's life. For over three decades, she and her family were devoted members of Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Little Rock.
Above all else, Terry cherished her family. She is survived by her beloved husband Bennie; sons, Jason and Zachary; daughter-in-law Ada; and two beautiful grandsons, Skye and Zion, who brought immense joy into her life. She also leaves behind her brother David Hanak (Nela), sister Cindy Hunter (Bryce), as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephew.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Cathy Miller.
Terry had a vibrant spirit that touched everyone around her. She had a great love for music and found joy in exchanging stories with friends old and new. A devoted animal lover throughout her life, she especially adored her cockatiels Lum and Abner. Whether reading or listening to books, Terry always sought knowledge and connection through words.
Her legacy is one of unwavering strength, heartfelt service, and boundless love for those around her. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.
Her Funeral Mass was held on Dec. 12, 2025.
In lieu of flowers, Terry would wish donations to the Arkansas Council of the Blind, 1244 Woodcreek Lane, Fayetteville, AR 72701.