July 29, 2023, 68, Goldsboro —
Terry Linwood Hartley fought the good fight and finished his course here on earth on Saturday, July 29, 2023. Terry was born in Wayne County to the late George William “Bill” Hartley and Inez Watkins Hartley.
Proudly serving his country in the United States Army and Marine Corps, Terry medically retired in 1986 with the rank of Captain from the United States Marine Corps. During his time with the Marines, he served as an artillery officer and naval aerial observer. The training he received during his time with the Marines was well-utilized throughout his life, as he used the skills learned to enhance his service to others.
After graduating with a Master’s in Science and Technology from East Carolina University as well as a Master’s in Theology from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary in Springfield, MO, Terry faithfully served his Lord as a pastor in several churches throughout North Carolina and Missouri. Terry was ordained with the Assemblies of God Church, he was also an ordained Bishop in the Church of God.
A heart filled with the compassion of Christ, Terry’s ministry was focused on the people he could serve. Called to show the love of Jesus to all he met, he served in missions both locally and globally. Spreading the gospel through many mission trips of his own, he continued to help sponsor mission trips for his sons and others when he could not physically participate.
Experiencing the handiwork of God through His creation was most enjoyed through the hobbies of golf and fishing. Watching NASCAR and drag racing was also a highlight for him, as he pulled for his favorite racecar drivers every chance he got.
While Terry’s relationship with the Father was of top priority for him, the family was a close second. Creating lasting relationships with each one was always his focus. When he was with his family, they were the center of attention, and nobody was cherished more by him than his grandsons.
The family will receive friends on Monday, August 7, 2023, from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Princeton Church of God. A service to celebrate the Christian life of Terry will follow at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with Pastor Matthew Cornett presiding. A burial with military honors will be held on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. in the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.
Terry is survived by his wife of 46 years, Annette Thompson Hartley; sons, Terry L. Hartley II and wife (Jaime) and Nicholas Adam Hartley; grandchildren, Liam Hartley, Jacob Hartley, and Joshua Hartley; brother, Steve Hartley, and wife, Claudia Massaro; and father-in-law, Rev. Dan Thompson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Lynda Thompson.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given in his memory to Gideons International.
Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
