Terry W Thurmond

Born August 8, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois went to be with the Lord July 27, 2018 in Modesto, Ca.  Terry is survived by his wife of 24 years, Dawn Thurmond, his son, Charles Thurmond, his parents, James & Shirley Thurmond, his sisters: Mitzi & her husband, Mike Riggs, niece, Abbey Riggs, Susie & her husband, Wm. (Bill) Troy, nephews, John & Harris Troy, Cheri & her husband, William Pilkenton, niece, Emily Conrad with great niece, Sophie Conrad, Trudy & her husband, Chris Jones, niece, Hanna Jones and his brother, Sam Thurmond.

Terry was an educator at heart who taught at various secondary, middle and high schools throughout the United States and overseas in South Korea and Hong Kong.  Terry earned a BA in Pastoral Ministries in May of 1982, a BS in Education in May of 1984, and a MS in Secondary Education in August of 1989.  Beginning in 1984, Terry taught History and Government in Little Rock, AR at Arkansas Baptist High School.  In 1988, he taught Secondary Social Studies, Basic Science, English and Bible in Memphis, TN at Oakhaven Baptist Academy.  In 1992, Terry spread his wings and traveled across the Pacific Ocean to South Korea teaching Secondary Social Studies, English and Bible at International Christian School in Pyeongtaek, South Korea.  He met and married his wife, Dawn, teaching in South Korea.  Their son, Charles was born in Seoul, South Korea during their time overseas.  In 1997, Terry taught Secondary Social Studies, English and Bible in Hong Kong at International Christian School, Hong Kong.  Returning stateside, settling in Modesto, California, Terry taught Secondary Social Studies, Bible and Basic Science at Wood Colony Brethren School in Modesto, CA.

Terry was an avid history buff, loved to read, travel, and study theology.  He passed away from an extended illness.  He had a true heart for God seeking wisdom.  He was a sincerely humble man with a gentle spirit.  He was severely quiet, unassuming, and quick-witted with the driest sense of humor loving to play the subtlest of tricks on those he cared for, family, friends and students.  He had a consistent care and concern for every student who came through his classrooms.  His influence, both in education and in service as an educator- missionary, has truly stretched throughout the globe.  Terry felt called to serve from the time he received Christ in the late 1970s on January 16th. He loved his family dearly.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to consider a donation of school supplies and clothing to your local schools and communities to encourage learning opportunities in those who will be our future.

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