Terry Youlton

YOULTON: Robert Terence -

A resident of Ridgetown, Terry Youlton passed away at the Riverview Gardens on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at the age of 89.

Born in London, Terry was the son of the late Robert and Eva (née King) Youlton and grew up in Bothwell and Glencoe.

Beloved husband to Mary Jane Youlton (née MacDougall).

Loving father of Rick Youlton (Joanne), Kathy Rae (Don), the late Peggy LaRoche (1992) and the late Doug Youlton (1983).

Proud Grandpa to Kelly, Leslie and Lindsay; Tamara, Carly, Brad, Samuel and Brenna; Tyler, Brent, Natasha and Shawn.

Great-Grandpa to Mia and Keira; and Tsering; Lucas, Jakob, Charlotte, Mattea and Ari; Cooper and Callie; Jace, Jayden, Tyson, Grayson, Cole and Palmer.

Predeceased by his siblings Barbara Humphrey (late Bill), Shirley Davis (late Larry) and Gordon Youlton (late Helen).

Also missed by many friends and extended family.

Terry left an enduring impression on everyone he met and a legacy that we all can envy and aspire towards. His first love was Mary Jane, his beloved "Red" whom he met and married while they both attended college in Guelph. But a close second was his work, which took on many forms. The Rotary motto of "Service Above Self" was his driving force. He served in Rotary for over 50 years and was a highly recognized leader and tireless worker on projects, both local and around the world. He served as District Governor with Rotary International in 1997/98. He was a successful entrepreneur, starting his own company in 1961 with a loan from his grandmother’s milk fund and building a business that was known across the industry for its consistency at being a leading-edge, customer-driven, successful dealership. He was a man of faith and did far more than sit in a pew at the churches he was a member of in Ridgetown and Sauble Beach. He sat on and chaired many church boards, he led annual events like the Pancake Supper or the popular Turkey Dinners, and he did whatever was necessary to benefit the church and its congregation. Terry also loved to sing and dance and was a founding member and proud performer in Ridge Players for many years. And last but certainly not least he was a very proud, loving and active father and grandfather creating memories with and for his family that will stay with them forever.

Terry was a very generous person - with his time, his money and his love. It went hand in hand with his constant drive to help, especially to those less fortunate or in need. He did not however “suffer fools” very well. Honesty was also a significant principle for Terry - his word was his bond and you always knew where you stood with Terry. He was decisive, confident and stubborn at times - which would explain why he so often took the lead on projects rather than sit back to do what he was told. His many accomplishments and awards exemplify the extraordinary role model he was to us all.

As per Terry's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will be held at McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 11:00am. A Celebration of Life will follow the service at the McKinlay Reception Centre, 463 St. Clair Street Chatham from 12:00pm - 4:00pm. Private family interment at Greenwood Cemetery to be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations made in memory of Terry to the Alzheimer Society, Diabetes Canada, Rotary International, the Church of the Advent, Ridgetown or a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home

459 St. Clair Street, Chatham

519-351-2040