By Robert Blanchard

Terry Allen Dease was born on September 3rd, 1942, in the quaint town of Frostproof, Florida and passed away on the evening of March 22nd 2024 less than 10 miles away from his birthplace.

As young children, he and his siblings were shuffled among various family members in various states. Times were tough and families pulled together to survive. But his resilience and fortitude would sustain him as he embarked on a journey through life that was nothing short of extraordinary.

After a brief stint in the Army, Terry found himself searching for his niche in life and that is were the adventure began.

In his 20s, Terry donned the apron as a cook, serving up mini-burgers; called “Sliders” now, at what would later be recognized as the very last standing & operating Royal Castle in Miami, FL. Although they were fun times, Terry was searching for more…..

In the late 60’s to early 70’s, Terry found he had a liking and a talent for the construction industry.

By chance, his mothers then boyfriend, Tony had a business that built the very recognizable A-frame International House of Pancakes buildings in Florida & Georgia.

Rising to the top quickly to become a supervisor, Terry oversaw the building of many of the International House of Pancakes (IHOP’s) in the region, ensuring that each establishment became more than just a place to enjoy a meal but a cherished gathering spot for families and friends.

Construction was the “niche” in life he had been searching for, but after making some great paydays, Terry was ready for a little adventure.

In the mid 1970’s, he donned his trucker hat and his CB Radio to roam the highways as a trucker, traversing the vast landscapes of the United States. His adventures behind the wheel not only took him to distant states and regions, but also gifted him with stories that varied from harrowing to laughable!

By the late 1970s, Terry dared to chase his other dreams, leaving his mark on various ventures along the way including running his own fishing tour guide business in Lake County, Florida, being an Ambulance Driver in Broward County, Florida and even opening his own framing business in construction there.

But everyone comes home eventually, as did Terry. Finding his way back to Polk County, Florida, Terry continued his passion for construction. After working as a sub-contractor for years, Terry found his home with Ridge Builders of Haines City. Owner Bobby Lynch would become one of Terry’s closest and best friends.

After retiring in 2010, Bobby & Terry would continue their friendship, talking daily throughout the rest of his life.

Terry’s greatest legacy lies in the hearts of those he leaves behind. He is survived by his daughter Christy, his beloved sisters, Jeanette and Maxine, his nieces Cindy and Katie, his nephew Robert and great nephew Ashtin, and a host of younger extended family members such as the McCraw’s and Young’s.

As we reflect on Terry’s life and legacy, let us remember not only his professional achievements but also the countless lives he touched along the way. His dedication, kindness, and unwavering spirit will continue to inspire us for years to come.

Rest in peace, Terry, knowing that your legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved you. We will miss you dearly!

By Carl Fish

Frostproof, Florida – The small community of Frostproof is totally devastated this morning after the brutal murder of local teacher. According to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd the teacher, Elvia Espinoza 46, was currently teaching 2nd grade at Ben Hill Griffin. According to Sheriff Judd it was Espinoza’s 21 year old son that murdered her. The son Emmanuel Espinoza reportedly made up his mind he was going to kill his mom, who he loved, because she got on his nerves. He is a University of Florida Pre-Med student came to his mother’s home and as she answered the door started stabbing her until he eventually killed her.

The news broke shortly after 9:30pm and 10’s of thousands of read the Daily Ridge article in less than an hour. Not only did people read and share the article, they shared personal stories and feelings about Elvia Espinoza:

“Prayers for her family and students and colleagues. She is very loved by many. I don’t know how to tell my daughter that her teacher went to heaven. 😭😭😭😭😭” – Betty T.

“My girl is sleeping now, but I’m not sure how to even put it into words for her. And to have to tell her and then send her to school… 😞😞” – Brooklyn B.

“OMG. Elvia was one of the sweetest people she will be missed” – Carrie W.

“I have worked with Elvia many years at the school. She loved her family, her friends and students. We passed each other in the hallway Friday afternoon -she said have a good weekend and see you Monday” – Barbie W.

“I’m am heartbroken over this. I worked with Elvia for five years at FMSHS when she was a para and school secretary. Wonderful woman.” – Cat M.

“So heartbreaking to lose just a sweet kind-hearted person! Praying for her students and family, especially her other two children who are dealing with something so devastating….that no person should ever have to endure! You will be missed in our little town Elvia!” – Becki R.

“I mourn my friend tonight. She was a phenomenal mother, and grandmother. I had the honor of knowing her for many years and my heart is broken. Rest in peace my sweet friend. Till we meet again. 💔💔💔 – Terri W.-B.

“My daughter is broken😢she cried herself to sleep tonight…. Mrs. Espinosa was a wonderful teacher. she’s always gonna be in our hearts prayers for her and her family ….😢” – Cindy C.

“This is truly heartbreaking!! Mrs Espinoza was always so nice when my kids went to school and I have the fondest of memories of her. She worked in the office at the high school at that time and she will surely be missed. I feel so much for all the sweet babies in her second grade class that are now left to deal with the questions and emotions of this ugly senseless ordeal. I pray that a peace falls upon each of them and that this doesn’t follow any of them throughout the rest of their year. As for Mrs Espinoza’s family, no family should ever have to go through such a horrific event. My thoughts and prayers are with you.” – Amy C.

PCSO is investigating a homicide that happened in Frostproof this afternoon.

“Sheriff Grady Judd is giving details about a truly horrible situation that occurred in Frostproof this afternoon (Saturday, April 6, 2024) just after 2:00 p.m. 21-year-old Emmanuel Espinoza, who is a pre-med student at the University of Florida, drove to his mother’s house here in Polk County and stabbed her to death. He called 911, confessed, and is in custody. 

Elvia Espinoza was 46 years old and a second grade teacher at Ben Hill Griffin Elementary School in Frostproof. Her family, friends, students, and colleagues at the school and with Polk County Public Schools are in our prayers. 

The suspect will be booked into jail this evening and charged with first degree murder.”