Terry Lee Forrette

Terry Lee Forrette passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 6^th, 2023, surrounded by friends and family after a long battle with ALS.  Born in Kokomo, IN to Lester Forrette and Sylvia Holt, Terry grew up in Madison, WI and later moved to the New Orleans area where he resided for over 50 years.  

Terry is survived by his wife Linda; his children, Jamie (Brant) Burns, Phillip Forrette, Adam (Frances) Forrette, and Brent Shaw; and grandchildren, Jayden, Brady, Baker George, Christian, Bailey, and James.  Terry will be dearly missed by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and wonderful, lifelong friends.

Terry was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings Bruce, John, Jerry, Jeannie, Joann, Beth, and Curt.

Terry dedicated his professional life to education in the field of respiratory therapy. He taught numerous therapists and physicians at LSU Medical School in New Orleans, authored textbooks, and through his work at Medical Specialties he made an impact in the medical community across the country.  Outside of work, Terry enjoyed festivals, live music, motorcycles, exercise, Saints football, and all things New Orleans.  Following Hurricane Katrina, he partnered with Americas Wetlands and set off on a motorcycle trip around the border of the continental United States to raise awareness on the importance of the wetlands in the coastal regions. He authored a book, Riding the Rim, to document his trip and the many encounters he had along the way.  Terry never met a stranger, and he could start a conversation with anyone at any time.  He would not be found without a pen on his shirt, change in his pocket, and his watch set 5 minutes ahead of time so he was never late.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a celebration of life at Beau Chene Country Club, 602 N. Beau Chene Dr, Mandeville, LA on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 12:00PM.  In lieu of flowers, kindly consider memorial contributions in memory of Terry Forrette to Team Gleason (www.teamgleason.org) to further ALS research, advocacy, and support.