Terry Dean McGiffin's Obituary
Terry Dean McGiffin, born August 14, 1942, in Bowling Green, Ohio, passed away surrounded by the love of his family and the faith that guided his life.
Terry faithfully served as a preacher for the Church of Christ for 16 years and continued his ministry on a part-time basis while working professionally as a Training and Development Manager for several corporations in Columbus, Ohio. In 2005, he retired due to a disability caused by Muscular Dystrophy. Even so, his devotion to teaching and sharing God’s word never wavered—he continued to preach and teach from his mobility scooter, inspiring many through his perseverance and faith.
Above all else, Terry was devoted to his family. He cherished his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and he shared a deep and abiding love with his beloved wife and best friend, Frances Dorene (King) McGiffin. The two were happily married for over 60 years, having wed on September 1, 1962.
He is lovingly remembered by his three sons: Mark (Becky) McGiffin of Howard, Ohio; John (Laura) McGiffin of Toddville, Iowa; and Matt (Kelly) McGiffin of Smithfield, Virginia.
Terry was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Briana (Eric) Lard, Ashleigh McGiffin, Aaron (Emily) McGiffin, Samanda (Austin) Franks, and Christopher McGiffin; and a joyful great-grandfather to three great-granddaughters, Kaya, Ember, and Wrenna.
He is also survived by two brothers, Gerry Whitacre and Bill Whitacre; two sisters, Carol Conley and Tammy McMahan; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Max McGiffin (August 3, 2001), and his mother, Cecile Tyson (December 4, 2014).
Terry valued education and lifelong learning. He attended Elmwood High School in Bloomdale, Ohio, and pursued higher education at Michigan State University; Michigan Christian College; Oklahoma Christian College; the University of Memphis; Harding Graduate School of Religion; and The Ohio State University, where he earned his Master’s Degree in Human Resources Development.
A memorial service will be held at Pickerington Church of Christ, 9645 Stoudertown Rd. NW, Pickerington, Ohio on February 28,2026 at 12:00 noon, with visitation from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Terry will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his dedication to serving others, and the love he poured into his family and community.
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