Detroit Region SCCA

Detroit Region SCCA is saddened to acknowledge the passing of Terry Abbott. Terrance “Terry” Abbott was a fixture at road races for both SCCA and Waterford Hills Road Racing for over 30 years, both as a driver and as a mentor to his sons Andrew and Brandon.

A lifetime member of Waterford Hills Road Racing, Terry began racing at a very young age and continued to do so through his adult life. Terry temporarily hung up his helmet once Andrew and Brandon were old enough to start racing and celebrated all their victories as if they were his own.  In 2023, he joined the boys on the track again in a Formula Vee.

Despite being inactive for long periods, Terry never lost his touch behind the wheel. As evidenced by his victory during a Vintage weekend at Waterford Hills when a driver decided he did not feel well enough to compete. The driver let Terry run his car, where he drove it to a race win.

Though his driving accomplishments were impressive, Terry would be the first to tell you his proudest accomplishments were his family. He supported his sons Andrew and Brandon in their racing efforts from quarter midgets all the way to running a pair FV’s running successfully at a national level. Anyone who met Terry could immediately see that his greatest joy came from being around his beloved family.  He enjoyed nothing more than time at the racetrack with all of them.

Outside the track, Terry had a deep love for animals. He cherished his pets with a passion that rivaled his love for any person. Terry also had a passion for his motorcycle family and commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of children through his involvement as a founding member of Defenders of the Children.

Terry had a genuine nature that left a lasting impact on all who met him. His legacy of compassion and friendship will forever be treasured by those fortunate enough to have been touched by his friendly spirit. Our thoughts are with his wife Patty, sons Brandon and Andrew, his daughter in law’s Veronica, and Emily, and his extended racing family who he loved with all his heart.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 22 from 2-8 pm at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home in Farmington, MI.  A Celebration of Life will also be held on Friday, February 23, 12-2 pm, also at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home in Farmington, MI.

Detroit Region SCCA asks that our members consider making a donation to his charity to honor his legacy: https://www.facebook.com/DefendersOfTheChildren