Obituary of Terry Van Benthuysen
Terry Van Benthuysen, 77, of Point Pleasant, NJ, passed away on January 14, 2025 following a recent diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Born and raised in Farmingdale, NJ, Terry spent the past 45 years calling Point Pleasant home.
A man of few words and a Jack of all Trades, Terry was known for his tenacious work ethic. His career with the New Jersey Natural Gas Company began in 1966 and spanned an incredible 58 years, interrupted only by his service in the Army National Guard. As the company's longest-employed individual, Terry took immense pride in his work and his unwavering dedication to providing for his family.
Terry was a member of the Garden State Vintage Stock Car Club and cherished his time racing his car (#74) at Wall Stadium. He was also a member of the First United Methodist Church of Farmingdale. At home, he could often be found in his garage working on one of his many projects. He enjoyed WWII history, camping in Pennsylvania, and sharing stories about local history. Terry also loved walking with his longtime partner, Patty, at Allaire State Park in every season. Later in life, he enjoyed taking his grandsons to race slot cars-though he was known for being a bit too quick off the line.
Terry was predeceased by his parents, Seth L. Van Benthuysen and Anne (Russell) Van Benthuysen; and his brother, William S. Van Benthuysen. He is survived by his daughter, Terri Anne Meyer; her husband, Philip; and grandsons Levi and Landon, all of Fruitland Park, FL. He is also survived by Patricia Fear of Point Pleasant.
Visitation will be held at the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia Road (Route 524), Freehold Township on Monday, January 20, 2025 from 3:00 to 7:00 PM. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his 10:00 AM funeral service at the funeral home on Tuesday, January 21, 2025. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, West Farms Road and Route 524, Howell. For those who desire, memorial donations may be made to Allaire State Park, 4265 Atlantic Avenue, Wall Township, NJ 07727. For information, directions or to leave condolence messages to the family, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com.