KPLC Met Dies at 40

KPLC (Lake Charles) Met Ben Terry, passed away Sunday, Aug. 13, 2023, in Lake Charles, according to his family. He was just 40 years old.

Through hurricanes, floods, ice storms, sunshine – and even an occasional snowfall, Ben kept his neighbors up to date about the weather throughout hundreds of broadcasts over the years on KPLC.

His treatments for colon cancer were well documented since his diagnosis nearly three years ago, as he shared much of the details of his treatments with the public throughout his journey.

“For me, I’m not somebody who gives up,” Ben told NBC’s The Today Show in 2021. “I’ve got to use this opportunity now to get on and tell people don’t put off screenings.”

Colleagues remember Ben for his ability to translate complex weather forecasts into compelling messages that viewers could easily understand, and they also remember his refusal to lose hope.

“He was afraid of disappointing us if he didn’t get well,” KPLC Anchor John Bridges said. “I kept telling him his fight was enough for me, no matter what happens.”

“He is free of all pain, and worry,” KPLC General Manager John Ware said. “He was a faith-filled man and he has gone home to his Heavenly Father. The way he lived his life will continue to be an inspiration to those he left behind. I have never witnessed someone face illness and pain with as much dignity as Ben did. The outpouring of support from people he had never met is a tribute to that. We may never meet another Ben Terry.”

H/T KPLC