Terrell James Benoit, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on May 15, 2026, in Houston, Texas. Born on September 4, 1944, in Lafayette, Louisiana, Terrell lived a life with love, laughter, and dedication to those he cherished most.
For many years, Terrell made his living as a truck driver, a career that saw him traverse countless miles and meet many along the way. Yet, beyond his professional journey, it was his family that held the greatest place in his heart. Known for his sense of humor and being a true jokester, Terrell found endless joy in teasing and “aggravating” his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, moments that brought smiles and laughter to all who knew him.
A longtime member of New Life Church in Batson, Texas, Terrell’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was also known for his pastime pleasures—surfing Facebook and lending an ear to the rhythms of Cajun music, which connected him to his roots and the culture he loved so dearly.
Terrell is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Terri Fregia of Batson, Texas, and his son, Chuck Benoit, along with Chuck’s wife, Claudia, of Hardin, Texas. His legacy lives on vividly through his grandchildren: grandsons, Christopher “Chip” Fregia and wife Shelby of Batson, Texas and Derrick Tanner and his wife Stormie of Dayton, Texas; granddaughters Shayla Harwell of Hardin; and Amber Benoit and her fiancé Joseph Whiddon of Daisetta. His family circle extends to his great-grandchildren Braiden, Skylar, and Tobias Fregia; Trysten and Destynee Tanner; Savannah Harwell; and Cooper Whiddon. Terrell was also a cherished brother to Patrick Benoit and his wife Ginger of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana. He is survived by a host of loving nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.
Terrell’s life was also marked by the memories of those who went before him—his father, Murphy James Benoit; mother, Ethel Hardy Benoit; wife, Carolyn Benoit; brother, Raymond Benoit; granddaughter, Ashley Benoit; and son-in-law, Allen “Bubba” Fregia. Their presence is deeply missed but forever felt.
The celebration of Terrell’s life will begin with visitation on May 21, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at New Life Church Batson, located at 42493 Texas 105 in Batson, Texas. The funeral service will be held the following day, May 22, at 11:00 AM at New Life Church with Pastor Bill Campbell officiating, followed by burial at Guedry Cemetery, 11713 Batson Prairie Road, beginning at 12:30 PM.
Honoring Terrell as pallbearers Derrick Tanner, Christopher Fregia, Joseph Whiddon, Alan Gartner, Trysten Tanner and Lalo Tristan. Honorary pallbearers are Johnny Carter, Patrick Benoit and Cooper Whiddon.
Terrell James Benoit’s spirit touched many through his joy, humor, and unwavering love for his family and faith. Though he leaves a void in the lives he touched, the laughter, memories, and love he shared will continue to inspire and comfort all who were fortunate to know him. His journey may have ended, but the legacy of Terrell’s warmth and delight in life’s simple pleasures remains immortal in the hearts of his loved ones.