Our beloved Terrence Coburn, went to be with the Lord on November 18, 2022. He was married to “his girl” Judy, the love of his life, for sixty years. He would tell everyone he knew that it was love at first sight. Terry was a tender, loving, and faithful husband. He was a father of two daughters: Kathy (husband Dan) and Julie (husband Brian).
Terry was loved dearly by his six grandchildren: Kristina (husband Brandon), Jennifer (husband Scott), David, Andrew (wife Courtney), Amy (husband Brandon), and Kerri, as well as his great-grandson, Jonathan. He was a constant and devoted presence in their lives and deeply proud of each one of them. Family was a priority second only to his relationship with Christ.
Terry and Judy split time between their cottage in Pentwater, Michigan and condo in Sarasota, Florida after his retirement from a career in mathematics education. While in Pentwater, he spent many hours in the Pentwater Artisan Learning Center to conduct woodworking projects. The cottage is filled with his hand-made furniture and built-ins. He played golf weekly with the Tuesday Men’s League that he organized, and he proudly flew his Michigan Wolverines flag every football Saturday. Terry and Judy attended Pentwater Baptist Church, where they attended Sunday service and participated in small groups during the summer months.
In Sarasota, Terry enjoyed time spent with friends at the Heritage Oaks Country Club. He played golf, went on dinner and movie dates with Judy and friends, and enjoyed the warm Florida winters. Terry and Judy were involved with Sarasota Baptist Church, where they attended Sunday service and participated in small groups during the winter months.
Terry was a life-long learner, a wonderful storyteller, and he had a quick-witted sense of humor. Time spent with Terry was always complete with thoughtful conversation and insights. When delivering one of his classic jokes, he often struggled to hold back a chuckle or two before delivering the punchline. This only added to the joy and laughter that he loved bringing to those around him.
As Terry aged, he found much joy in hearing old Christian hymns because of the powerful words that touched his soul. He sang many of them until his very end. During his life and throughout his final days, he told everyone he could that he was not afraid to die because of the assurance of salvation he had in Christ Jesus his Lord.
Terry enjoyed discussions and books about Heaven, and he lived in anticipation of meeting his Savior face-to-face. He had a deep faith in Jesus, and he was inspired by Psalm 118:8: “It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” Ever the mathematician, Terry would tell you that this verse marks the exact center of the Bible.
Terry’s life was marked by service and generosity towards others and towards the Lord. That’s why in lieu of flowers and gifts, the family asks that any gifts be made as donations to his granddaughter Kristina’s non-profit, Victory Road Co. to honor Terry’s life. Victory Road Co. exists to Serve Those Who Serve by equipping missionaries and organizations for service.