Terry Joe Shay, 59

Terry Joe Shay, 59, of Waterloo, passed away Thursday, September 28, 2023. He was born August 6, 1964, in Oelwein, the son of Maurice Gene Shay Sr and Shirley Rae Soper Shay. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Northern Iowa and taught vocal music for 37 years in Lost Nation and Plainfield, retiring from North Tama in Traer after 33 years in May 2023. Terry married Ellen Marie Bast at St John Lutheran Church in Cedar Falls on December 28, 1996.

Terry loved teaching music and being a part of the lives of his students. He started International Dot Day in September 2009, a day focused on helping kids to discover their own creative genius and celebrated by kids all over the world. In retirement he started a business by becoming the Dot Connector where he helped authors connect with schools to make personal visits. Terry enjoyed bicycling and especially helping people in any way he could.

Terry is survived by his wife, Ellen, of Waterloo, mother Shirley Shay, of Oelwein, siblings, Maurice Gene Shay Jr. and Debbie (John) Shirkey, both of Oelwein, parents-in-law Jim and Mary Bast, of Waterloo, brother-in-law Todd Bast of Grimes, and a whole host of nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, M. Gene Shay Sr.

Graveside services for Terry were Tuesday, October 3, 2023, at 1:00 PM at Waterloo Memorial Park Cemetery, 3430 W. 4th Street, Waterloo. Memorial contributions should be directed to the family for the establishment of a scholarship. Online condolences may be expressed at www.lockefuneralservices.com.