Terrell Hudson Trexler, Jr.

Terrell Hudson Trexler, Jr. — known to most as Terry — passed away peacefully at his home in Napa, California, with his wife, Bonnie, at his side. He was 84. Born on May 17, 1941, in Morganton, North Carolina, Terry’s life was marked by perseverance, humor, and an enduring curiosity about the world. His father, Terrell Hudson Trexler, Sr., was a First Lieutenant and pilot in the U.S. Army Air Forces who died in a tragic plane crash in the French Alps following World War II, when Terry was six years old. Terry was raised by his mother, Vera Wright, and in the care of his extended family — his aunt and uncle, Josie and Earl Parnell, and their family, as well as another aunt, Ruby Hall, and her family. Terry graduated from Dreher High School in Columbia, South Carolina, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from East Carolina College in 1965, where he was a proud member of Sigma Nu fraternity. It wasn’t long before he discovered his professional calling in finance in New York City. Terry began his career in municipal bonds at Northern Trust Company, in the Chase Tower. Over the course of his 45 year career on Wall Street, Terry also worked at Weeden & Company, Refco, E.A. Moos & Co., and KeyBank/McDonald & Company. New York was also where he met the love of his life, Bonnie Ann McNell. The two were married on July 24, 1971, beginning more than five decades of marriage defined by partnership, laughter, travel, and deep friendship. Together, they raised two children — a daughter, Colby Kate (married to Chris Clark), and a son, Andrew Wright (married to Carolyn Dingle) — and built a life centered on family and fun. While living in New York City, Terry enjoyed spending summers at the Jersey Shore where he often commuted to Lower Manhattan by seaplane. At the shore, he enjoyed membership at the Monmouth Beach Bath and Tennis Club and Deal Golf Club, where he had his one-and-only hole-in-one, witnessed by Colby. After many years in New York City, Terry and Bonnie moved to Summit, New Jersey, where they lived until retirement. While in Summit, Terry loved his time as a member of Canoe Brook Country Club. In 2013, they relocated to Napa, California — what Terry quickly proclaimed as “God’s Country.” There, he enjoyed his home in the Silverado Highlands, surrounded by the things he loved most: golf, wine, sunshine, friends and neighbors, delicious meals, and family. He was a regular at Trivia Night Tuesdays, followed the stock market, cheered for the 49ers, Giants, and Warriors, and savored life’s simple pleasures, such as listening to the Beatles and dancing with Bonnie. In Napa, he served as an usher for many years at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, where his warmth and good nature made everyone feel welcome. Terry began each day reading the newspaper — a lifelong habit that reflected his curiosity about the world. He was also a sharp dresser who loved preppy clothes and carried himself with an easy, classic style. He could tell you the price of blueberries across six grocery stores without missing a beat — a skill he took equal parts pride and amusement in. His huge smile, enthusiastic greetings, love of conversation, knack for finding a deal, and gentle soul will be remembered by those who knew him. He is survived by his beloved wife, Bonnie; his children, Colby and Andrew, and their spouses, Chris and Carolyn; and four cherished grandchildren — Fiona, Beatrice, Lily, and Hudson. A celebration of life will be planned in the future. For now, the family invites friends to raise a glass of good wine and toast to a life well lived — full of love, laughter, and great stories.

Terrell Hudson Trexler, Jr.

May 17, 1941 - November 11, 2025

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Terrell Hudson Trexler, Jr.

May 17, 1941 - November 11, 2025

Obituary Notification

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