Wendy Verink-Terhune

Wendy Susan Verink-Terhune, age 71, of Wesley Chapel, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2024, in Brandon, Florida. Wendy was born on March 13, 1953, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and was adopted by Martha Owens Verink and Ellis D. Verink as a 10-week-old infant. Wendy grew up in Gainesville, Florida, where she graduated from Gainesville High School in 1971. She continued her education at the University of Florida, earning her degree in 1975. Wendy was a lifelong Gator fan, supporting both her alma maters through active participation in their alumni associations and giving back to the Gainesville community.

In 1977, Wendy married Michael D. Womeldurf and moved to a suburb of Houston, Texas, where they had their son, Bryce. Wendy separated from Michael and moved to Tampa, Florida in 1983. Wendy had her second son, Cody, in a subsequent relationship, and later married Douglas R. Terhune in 2003, who became a loving stepfather for her two sons until his death in 2012.

Wendy had a distinguished career in the property title industry, starting as a title agent in Houston. After, her move to Tampa, she rose to become a branch manager for First American Title for 13 years, Alpha-Omega Title for 7 years, and Majesty Title Services for 8 years before retiring in 2019.

Wendy was known for her ability to make friends wherever she went, maintaining close, family-like relationships throughout her life. She particularly cherished planning trips with her close friends and her Ya-Ya sisters, and spending time at her family's beach house in St. Augustine, Florida.

Wendy was preceded in death by her parents, Martha Owens Verink and Ellis D. Verink; her sister, Barbara A. Verink; and her second husband, Douglas R. Terhune. She is survived by her eldest son, Bryce E. Womeldurf, and his wife, Nina C. Womeldurf; her youngest son, Cody M. Verink, his fiancée, Dezaree Kring, and their son, Easton D. Verink. On a future date, Wendy’s ashes will be laid to rest next to her late husband’s ashes at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Wendy’s memory may be made to the University of Florida’s Lady Gator Memorial Fund or the SPCA of Tampa Bay. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all who have offered support and love during this difficult time.