Dela Jean Gibbs Terrill

Dela Jean Gibbs Terrill passed away August 3, 2021. She was the daughter of Harold and Norma Gibbs, born in 1942 in San Angelo, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Buddy Gibbs. Dela was married to Joel B. (Burt) Terrill for 57 wonderful years. Their children are Craig Terrill and wife Melodi, children Ryan, Ashley Kendrick (Jordan), and Brooke: Mike Terrill and wife Melani, children Mason and Megan: Tammy Terrill Glass and Jason, children Laurel Kate and Hunter. These children and grandchildren were the very pride of her life. Dela graduated from Baylor University in 1963 with degrees in English and History. She and Burt married in June of 1963 and traveled extensively while he was in the Army for 10 years. In 1973 they moved back to San Angelo. A consummate American woman, Dela filled many roles of homemaker, community and church participant and paid professional. She was a supportive Army wife, partner in the community through San Angelo Junior League, Philia Women’s club (three times president), Republican Women, Cultural Affairs Council, Santa Rita PTA for 14 years, Baptist Retirement Board, Hospice of San Angelo, Meals for the Elderly and Salvation Army Boards. Dela and Burt chaired Fiesta Del Concho in June 1980. The Terrills grew up together at First Baptist Church of San Angelo to which they returned in 1974. In 1997 they moved to Glen Meadows Baptist Church where they both took responsibilities as they had at First Baptist. Dela worked professionally as a high school English teacher, as director of the Child Development Center and Montessori Kindergarten at First Baptist from 1984-1994, as owner/manager of Belvedere Cemetery for seven years until she sold it and as co-manager of a Water Valley Ranch and Brownwood ranch. Dela hosted family holiday dinners, bridge and 42 groups with poise and grace. She always had time for late afternoon Chinese Checkers with her husband and card games with her seven grandchildren. She read a lot, enjoyed home décor, antiques, and flowers as evidenced by her yard. She was a strong Christian which was reflected in her life of caring for others. A visitation will be held on Friday, August 6, 2021 at Harper Funeral Home from 2:00pm-4:00pm. Funeral service will be on Saturday, August 7, 2021 at First Baptist Church at 10:00am. Burial to follow at Belvedere Memorial Cemetery.