Terry L. Gorlich, devoted public servant

Terry L. (Harvath) Gorlich, formerly of Smyrna, passed away peacefully Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at her home in Milton. She was born in Dover to Frank Harvath and Fay (Cole) Harvath. Terry was raised in Smyrna, where she attended John Bassett Moore High School. As a member of the varsity cheer squad and National Honor Society, she graduated in 1968 before continuing her education at Delaware State College.

Terry dedicated her career to public service, working for the State of Delaware for over 40 years in various positions and departments, including the Budget Office, Department of Natural Resources, and the Delaware Department of Transportation. Her roles culminated in serving as the assistant chief of Fiscal and Policy Analysis, and later as the director of public relations and legislative liaison for DelDOT. In these roles, she worked directly with the public and state legislators to understand and address their concerns. 

After retiring, Terry moved to Sussex County to be closer to the beach, where she enjoyed gardening, cars, pets, and the wonderful off-season Rehoboth Beach specials. Most importantly, she cherished spending time with her children and grandchildren. She was a cherished mother and grandmother. 

Terry is survived by her two sons, Jason Gorlich and Andrew Gorlich; as well as her four grandchildren. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at 12 p.m., Thursday, June 20, at Short Funeral Services chapel, 416 Federal St., Milton. Visitation for family and friends will begin at 11 a.m. 

In lieu of flowers, the family is encouraging donations in her memory to Children and Families First, cffde.org; Humane Animal Partners, humaneanimalpartners.org; or CAMP Rehoboth, camprehoboth.com.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.