Lillian Terry

Lillian Terry, 80, of Baker City, passed away at home on March 13, 2025, surrounded by her family. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 1:00 PM Pacific Time at the Baker City Church of the Nazarene, 1250 Hughes Ln, Baker City, OR. For those unable to attend in person, the service will also be available via live stream at https://bakernaz.com/ or on their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BakerCityNaz

Lillian was born on April 18, 1944, in Council, Idaho, and raised in Meadows Valley (now New Meadows, ID), where she attended Meadows Valley School as a proud “Mountaineer.” Over the years, she made her home in Elgin, Sumpter, and Baker City, Oregon, always carrying a deep love for community and creativity.

Lillian married Delbert Hibbard, with whom she had four children. They later divorced, and she subsequently married Steven Terry, expanding her family to include his four children.

A Lasting Legacy

Above all, Lillian cherished her family and friends. She found joy in their stories, accomplishments, and simple moments spent together. Her kindness, humor, and unwavering support left an imprint on everyone she loved.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Muriel Merritt; her brother, Norman Merritt; one great-grandchild; and two great-great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, Steven Terry, and her children: Melanie (Jim) Bolton, Bonnie Roseberry, Carol Thamert, Robert (Debbie) Hibbard, Nathaniel Terry, Stoddard Terry, Rise Smith, and Kimberly “Dee Dee” Gossi. She also leaves behind her beloved sister, Beverly Murdoch, 10 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her family, Lillian is fondly remembered by many beloved cousins and dear friends who were an important part of her life.

A Life of Service and Creativity

Lillian had a heart for service and a passion for making a difference. She wore many hats in life—teaching herself the skills of business, leadership, and community service. She believed in hard work, resourcefulness, and using her talents to uplift those around her. She and her husband, Steven, owned and operated a business together for many years.

During her time in Elgin, she also served as President of the Elgin TV Association and was an active member of the Pythian Sisters.

However, her most impactful work was in Baker City, where she served as Director of the Northeastern Oregon Compassion Center. In this role, she helped launch life-changing programs such as Cribs for Kids, Male and Female Batterer Groups, Angel Tree Gift Ministry, Restoration Ministry, Battle Plan for Purity, Prison Ministry, and Dialysis Client Transport. Her leadership strengthened the connection between the Compassion Center and the many ministries of the Church of the Nazarene, ensuring that help, hope, and healing reached those who needed it most.

A Creative Spirit

Beyond her service, Lillian was a gifted artist, seamstress, and maker of all things wonderful. Through her business, Granny Made It, she transformed forgotten materials into one-of-a-kind treasures, selling her handmade bags, hats, plush animals, and home décor at local farmer’s markets, seasonal bazaars, and her Etsy shop. Her preserves, worry pets, and handcrafted goods—often infused with her signature wit—became beloved by many. Every plush animal (her “critters”) came with its own name and backstory, bringing joy and laughter to those who received them.

Her favorite creative mediums included fabric, yarn, wood, and food. Whether sewing childhood dresses, crafting prom gowns for her own children and daughters of friends, or experimenting with new recipes, Lillian approached life with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a deep desire to share her gifts with others.

Honoring Lillian’s Memory

For those who wish to make a memorial donation in honor of Lillian, the family suggests contributions to Baker City Church of the Nazarene, the Northeastern Oregon Compassion Center, or Best Friends through Tami’s Pine Valley Funeral Home and Cremation Services, PO Box 543, Halfway, OR 97834.

Online condolences may be shared at www.tamispinevalleyfuneralhome.com.