Longtime Hopkinsville Resident Terry Stokes Dies at 93

Stokes was a U.S. Air Force veteran and longtime owner of Terry Auto Sales and Body Shop.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 1:12am

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in warm, golden tones depicting the interior of a cozy garage, with the blurred outline of a vintage motorcycle and various mechanical tools and parts visible in the background, conveying a sense of nostalgia and the passing of time.The passing of Terry Stokes, a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast and small business owner, marks the end of an era for the close-knit community of Hopkinsville, Kentucky.Clarksville Today

Terry G. Stokes, a 93-year-old resident of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, passed away on March 29, 2026 at Jennie Stuart Medical Center. Stokes was a U.S. Air Force veteran who later owned and operated Terry Auto Sales and Body Shop. He was known for his love of motorcycles, his mechanical skills, and his perseverance as a cancer survivor.

Why it matters

Stokes' passing marks the end of an era for the Hopkinsville community, where he was a well-known local business owner and active member of organizations like The Eagles Club, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and The American Legion. His life story reflects the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of many small-town Americans.

The details

Stokes was born on January 1, 1933 in Todd County, Kentucky to Everett Thomas Stokes and Cheatie Bonnie Dowdy Stokes. After serving as an aircraft mechanic in the U.S. Air Force, he went on to own and operate Terry Auto Sales and Body Shop in Hopkinsville until his retirement. Stokes was an avid motorcyclist who spent much of his free time tinkering on his bikes in his garage. He was also a cancer survivor.

  • Terry Stokes passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
  • A memorial service will be held at a later date.

The players

Terry G. Stokes

A 93-year-old resident of Hopkinsville, Kentucky who served in the U.S. Air Force and later owned and operated Terry Auto Sales and Body Shop until his retirement.

Jerry Stokes

Terry Stokes' son, who was by his side when he passed away.

Yvonne Jones

Terry Stokes' daughter.

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The takeaway

Terry Stokes' life and legacy as a small business owner, veteran, and active community member in Hopkinsville serves as a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of many Americans who have built lives and businesses in small towns across the country.