Tribute to Joseph Raymond Terrell (1955-2024)

    Joseph R. Terrell, affectionately known as "Joe", was born in Key West, Florida, on February 28, 1955, to Raymond L. Terrell and Martha née Little Terrell. His family lived in various places on the East Coast while his father served in the United States Navy. They eventually settled in Huntington, West Virginia. Joe learned of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ from his mother.

    After graduating from high school, Joe attended Word of Life Bible Institute in Chester, New York. He afterward attended Cedarville College in Ohio.

    While attending Cedarville College, Joe met his future wife, Bonnie Harrison. They graduated together in 1977, and were married later that year.

    Joe and Bonnie were blessed with three children: sons Ben and Nathan, and daughter Mary. All three children have confessed Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Joe and Bonnie spent a few years under the ministry of Henry T. Mahan, pastor of Thirteenth Street Baptist Church in Ashland, Kentucky. Joe was a student in the school for preachers conducted by this church and pastor.

    Joe afterward pastored for a short time a church in Owensboro, Kentucky.

    In 1987 Joe was called to pastor what became Grace Community Church in Rock Valley, Iowa. He faithfully pastored this church until he was called to glory thirty-seven years later, on April 22, 2024.

    Joe is fondly remembered as a devoted husband and father and grandfather. He was a faithful preacher and pastor. He was a gifted writer of articles and hymns. He was a reliable friend, renown for his hospitality, and ever ready to help those in need of his considerable skills. He lived what he preached, being diligent toward His Lord, sound in his doctrine, and above reproach in his conduct.

    In Joe Terrell we find proof that "The memory of the righteous is blessed" (Proverb 10:7).