Evangelist Terry J. Crist, 77, beloved minister and longtime Mooresville resident, was welcomed Home to Jesus on April 13, 2025. Terry was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor just a month ago and died peacefully at home, where he was surrounded by hymns of praise and the deep love of his family. Terry was born May 21, 1947, in Kirksville, Missouri, to the late Russell Paul and Willadeane (Bunch) Crist. Terry married the love of his life, Karen (Runner) Crist on December 30, 1966, and she survives.
Terry graduated from Liberty High School (R-1) in 1965 and continued his education at Midwest School of Evangelism (M.S.E.), completing five years of school in three. Knowing of his strong desire to be a pastor, Terry went straight into the ministry out of high school. He served in Ridgeway, Missouri, Goodhue, Minnesota, and came to Mt. Gilead Church, Mooresville, in 1972. He also served for nine years in Pittsburgh at Monroeville and North Hills Christian Churches. While at Mt. Gilead, Terry served as the senior minister for 16 years and as pastoral minister for 24 years. To say that Terry was a fixture at Mt. Gilead and in Mooresville is a gross understatement. He was deeply devoted to serving others in the Lord. He loved the church and was most proud that Mt. Gilead continues to grow.
Terry was a member and past president of the Mooresville Kiwanis Club and also served as Lieutenant Governor. He was the Boy Scout Institutional Representative for 20 years. Terry never missed an opportunity to visit his beloved homeplace in Missouri, play a round of golf, or enjoy a wonderful meal with family and friends. Terry always wanted to write a book, and while that did not happen, he was most proud that his daughter Jennifer is preparing to accomplish this task. A true evangelist, Terry became affiliated with Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines in 1984 and had served as their president since 2002. Terry’s strong devotion to the organization led him to visit the Philippines every other year. Terry was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather who simply delighted in seeing his family grow through the years.
In addition to his parents, Terry was preceded in death by his two brothers, Manford and John Crist.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 58 years, Karen; children, Julie (Steve) Gregory, Jodi White, Tim Crist, and Jennifer (Johnny) Scott; brothers, sister, Deborah (Mike) York; sister-in-law, Mary Crist; grandchildren, Cordon (Sarah) Gregory, Laurel (Austin) Jones, Elise (Cooper) Mills, Grace White and Jadon (Brianna) White; Isaac and Benjamin Crist; Riley (Mallory) Scott, Aiden (Eva) Scott, Finnley, Marielle, and Marianno Scott; great-grandchildren, Emmett, Hattie, Loretta, Layna, Mila, Rain, and Stevie.
Terry’s Life Celebration® Visitation and Funeral Service were held at Mt. Gilead Church, 6019 E. State Road 144, Mooresville. Visitation was Tuesday, April 22, 2025, 4 to 8 p.m., and from 10 to 11 a.m., Wednesday, April 23, 2025. The funeral service will follow at 11 a.m., Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Burial will be in the Mooresville Cemetery. While flowers are appreciated, please consider making a memorial contribution to Mt. Gilead Church; envelopes will be available at the services. Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the family.
