Ben Terry was a Southwest Louisiana meteorologist. This gentleman passed away on Sunday, August 13, 2023, in Lake Charles. He was 40 years old. He died after a long and brave battle with colon cancer, which he documented and shared with the public throughout his journey.
A Passion for Weather
Ben Terry was born on June 25, 1983, in Kosciusko, Mississippi. He developed a love for weather at an early age, as he would spend hours observing the skies and predicting the forecast. His passion led him to pursue a degree in geosciences with an emphasis on broadcast meteorology from Mississippi State University.
He started his career as a meteorologist in Jackson, Mississippi, where he worked for several stations and covered various weather events. He joined KPLC-TV in Lake Charles, Louisiana, in April 2011, where he became a prominent figure and a trusted source of weather information for the community.
He was known for his ability to translate complex weather forecasts into influential messages that viewers could easily understand. He was also dedicated to public safety and education, as he would warn people about potential hazards and visit local schools to inspire young students to learn about science.
He contributed to significant improvements in weather technology at KPLC-TV over the years, including the installation of the Skycam network and the most recent WSI weather system.
| Name | Ben Terry |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 25, 1983 |
| Date of Death | August 13, 2023 |
| Place of Birth | Kosciusko, Mississippi |
| Place of Death | Lake Charles, Louisiana |
| Cause of Death | Colon Cancer |
| Education | Mississippi State University |
| Occupation | Meteorologist |
| Employer | KPLC-TV |
| Awards | Special Achievement Award from the National Weather Service |
A Courageous Battle
Despite his success in the field of meteorology, Ben Terry faced an arduous battle with cancer. He was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in 2020 when he was only 37 years old. He underwent surgery and chemotherapy, but his cancer returned aggressively and spread to other organs.
He approached his diagnosis with unwavering determination and a positive spirit, becoming an inspiration to many. Throughout his treatment, he remained optimistic and continued to deliver weather updates, determined to fulfill his responsibilities to the community.
He also used his platform to raise awareness about colon cancer and encourage people to get screened early. He told NBC’s The Today Show in 2021:
For me, I’m not somebody who gives up. I’ve got to use this opportunity now to get on and tell people don’t put off screenings.
His remarkable courage and resilience touched the hearts of not only his family and friends but also countless viewers who followed his journey.
A National Notoriety
Not many people know that he earned national notoriety before his cancer battle for his candor long. As Hurricane Laura approached the Southwest Louisiana coast in 2020, a curt response on social media to a disappointed viewer launched a moment of levity amid one of the worst disasters on the Gulf Coast.
“Change the channel then,” was a signature phrase of Ben. He mainly used this in response to claims that Terry’s urgent warnings about the Category 5 hurricane were promoting fear and panic. Ben later explained that the phrase was meant to be a lighthearted joke. He said
It gave people something to laugh about when we needed it most
He was an urgent voice during the storm. However, he also became a victim. His Lake Charles home was one of the many that were destroyed by the hurricane. He continued to work from a hotel room until he could rebuild his house.
His reporting on Hurricane Laura earned him a Special Achievement Award from the National Weather Service for his outstanding service to the public.
A Fond Farewell
Ben Terry’s passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him personally and those who watched him on television. His warm demeanor, combined with his exceptional skills, made him a beloved figure in the Lake Charles community.
As news of his death spread, tributes poured in from viewers, colleagues, and public figures. Numerous conveyed their appreciation for Terry’s contributions to the community.
His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the memories he created. His passion for meteorology and dedication to public service will forever be remembered.
Quick Trivia
- Ben Terry was a Southwest Louisiana meteorologist who passed away at the age of 40 after a long battle with colon cancer.
- He was born in Mississippi and graduated from Mississippi State University with a degree in geosciences and broadcast meteorology.
- He joined KPLC-TV in Lake Charles in 2011 and became a trusted source of weather information for the community.
- He was known for his kind nature, his ability to communicate complex weather forecasts and his dedication to public safety and education.
- He documented and shared his cancer journey with the public and encouraged people to get screened early.
- He earned national notoriety for his candid response to a viewer who complained about his warnings about Hurricane Laura in 2020.
- He received a Special Achievement Award from the National Weather Service for his reporting on Hurricane Laura, which also destroyed his home.
- He was loved and admired by many people who expressed their condolences and tributes after his death.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When did Ben Terry die?
Ben Terry died on Sunday, August 13, 2023, in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
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What was Ben Terry’s cause of death?
Ben Terry’s cause of death was colon cancer, which he had been diagnosed within 2020.
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Where did Ben Terry work?
Ben Terry worked as a meteorologist at KPLC-TV in Lake Charles, Louisiana, since 2011.
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How did Ben Terry become famous?
Ben Terry became famous for his candid response to a viewer who criticized his warnings about Hurricane Laura in 2020. He said “Change the channel then,” which became a catchphrase and a joke among the public.
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What award did Ben Terry receive?
Ben Terry received a Special Achievement Award from the National Weather Service for his outstanding service to the public during Hurricane Laura.
