Geraldine (Farney) Terrillion was born in upstate New York on March 11, 1946. As a young girl, Gerri developed a true love of reading that followed her throughout her life. A mechanic's daughter, it would make sense that she met her lifelong love, Dale Terrillion, when her father worked on Dale's logging truck. They had many happy times together in New York while she rode with him as he hauled, sitting so close, she said, "That you couldn't tell who was driving." They married in April 1967 and wherever Dale decided to go, Gerri was game.
In 1974, a new adventure began when they moved the family of six out west. Traveling with four kids and a camper (after several breakdowns) they made their way to Oregon and Alaska. Eventually, in 1977, they settled in Condon. Gerri raised their family there and was involved in PTA, fundraisers and school activities and events. The summers were spent taking kids to Holland Lake and the library where she passed on her love of books and reading. She became the definition of a true homemaker and to her family and friends she was the queen of hospitality. There was never a stranger in her home. Gerri developed friendships there that she treasured long after she moved. Dale and Gerri sold their homestead in Condon in 2001. After a few years in Thompson Falls, they moved to Proctor and built a beautiful cabin. It was here that Gerri spent the last 18 years, creating a loving atmosphere for her family and in her home, on Aug. 3, 2024, she went to be with her Savior, surrounded by her loved ones.
To her family, Gerri was a Godly wife, mother, grandma and great-grandma. She was a teacher who showed them how to handle challenges in life whether it be in relationships, finances, or raising children. She was a loyal friend, a fair and loving mother. A comedian in her own right, Gerri's laughter and smile was a joyful experience for all. Gerri was a warm and gracious confidant, an example of what a Christian woman should be. A "grammie" with open arms and yummy cookies, snacks and sweet laughter to go with. Her home was always a place to rest and regroup. Gerri's presence will be missed whether celebrating special moments, academic or career achievements, and especially when life gives difficult challenges.
To her husband, Gerri was a beautiful wife, the epitome of the Proverbs 31 woman. Unselfish and loyal. A life-long companion that loved him, their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren unconditionally. Memories of happy summers camped out on some helicopter logging job, or at home sitting by the fire, reading and enjoying her company, will be forever cherished.
Gerri overcame difficult circumstances as a young girl to become a strong, courageous, Godly woman with a sweet spirit, a loving personality and a servant's heart. She left a mark on all who knew her or met her.
Words can't describe the heavy hearts with the passing of our beloved wife, momma, Gramma, and great-gramma. We look forward to the day we will see her again and are thankful for the sacrifice of our Savior, Jesus Christ, that makes it possible.
Gerri is survived by her husband Dale, Proctor; her children Tina Murphy, Polson; Troy and Lisa Terrillion, Missouri; Tracey and Kevin Wheeler, Proctor; Rosie and Lane McNealey, Kalispell; and 14 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by son-in-law Matthew Murphy and granddaughter Samantha Murphy.
A celebration of life will be held Oct. 5 at The Church of the Nazarene, 42653 Old US Hwy 93, Ronan, Montana at 1 p.m.
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