Ben Terry courtesy of KPLC
KPLC Meteorologist Ben Terry passed away Sunday after his almost three-year battle with colon cancer. The Lake Charles weatherman guided southwest Louisiana through Hurricane Laura and lost his home in the devastation. Fellow meteorologist Wade Hampton said months after Laura Ben received his cancer diagnosis.
“Even through all of those challenges, he preserved and pushed through and brought the forecast that southwest Louisiana was looking for in the mornings and he was well loved for it,” said Hampton.
In addition to southwest Louisiana, Ben shared his cancer journey on the Today Show in 2021. Hampton hopes by sharing his story that Ben helped others and raised awareness about colon cancer.
“He was definitely upfront and very honest with folks about his diagnosis, and I hope that it does continue to make people talk to their doctor,” said Hampton.
After the hurricane destroyed Ben’s home, Hampton drove over to salvage what he could for Ben and find his beloved cat, Vincent. Hampton said Vincet was found safe, and sound and he also recovered Ben’s meteorology degree from Mississippi State.
“It was surreal to actually see that for myself, that here’s this home with no roof on it at all and here’s this diploma in a frame hanging on the wall,” said Hampton.
The Kosciusko, Mississippi native was 40 years old.
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