Charles Terry Kisner, known to family and friends as “Terry”, passed away Sunday, April 26, 2026, surrounded by his family, in Morgantown, at the age of 81.
Born March 11, 1945, in Morgantown, Terry lived his entire life in the community he loved and called home, and he carried with him a deep appreciation for the West Virginian people, places, and traditions that shaped him. He grew up on Beverly Avenue in Sunnyside and had remarkable stories of a bygone era in what was once a neighborhood full of families, where he had a newspaper delivery route via his bicycle before he was a teenager.
Terry was a 1963 graduate of Morgantown High School, and from an early age he developed the determination, work ethic, and practical wisdom that would guide him throughout his life as a respected local contractor, land developer, and landlord.
Above all else, Terry was a devoted family man. He shared nearly 49 years of marriage with his wife, Vicki, and their life together was built on love, commitment, and a lifetime of beautiful family memories.
He was a proud father to daughters, Whitney Adkins (husband Chaille) of Morgantown and Wendy Riley (husband Scott) of Wilmington, N.C.; and son, Andrew Kisner of Morgantown. He also cherished his only grandchild, a granddaughter, Tanner St. Jean of Morgantown; as well as a number of special nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Franklin and Mary Marie Kisner; his brother, Jack Kisner; and his sisters, Lois “Bunny” Giazzon and Sherri “Teenie” Hardy.
Terry will be remembered as a man who never pretended to be anything other than exactly who he was. He was steadfast in his beliefs, unapologetically direct, adamantly private, and carried a stubborn tenacity that defined him. Yet beneath that strength was a deeply generous spirit — someone who gave freely, often quietly, and just as readily to strangers as to those closest to him.
Terry treasured time with his family, and some of his happiest moments were spent around the table enjoying long meals, great wine, laughs, and the simple pleasure of being together.
In his early years, he spent most of his summer days on Cheat Lake, where he boated for decades. He purchased his first motorcycle at age 15 and had a passion for riding that he taught many others and remained central in his life and his garage for 50 years. Terry loved cigars and cars and animals – especially the dozens of beloved dogs that he and Vicki cherished like children throughout his life. He was a remarkable dancer, ice skater, roller skater and whistler. He was a devout Mountaineer sports fan (though it often invoked some of his more spirited language). He relished the annual gathering of his 1963 MHS classmates who share a very special bond even after all these years.
Terry’s life was a testament to hard work, loyalty, and generosity. His absence leaves an undeniable void — especially at the head of his family’s table — but they find comfort in knowing he is now at peace.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no services.
Smith Funeral & Cremation Care and SFCC Crematory of Westover, 304-292-9494, is providing compassionate professional services to the family, and condolences may be offered at www.smithfcc.com
