Terri L. Wearstler

Terri L. Wearstler, 72, of Mentor, passed away May 21, 2025, at the David Simpson Hospice House in Cleveland. She was born on December 1, 1952, in Cleveland, to the late Cloyd and Mary Wolford. She had lived in Mentor, OH, for the past 31 years. Terri grew up in Strongsville, OH, and graduated from Strongsville High School in 1971. She studied nursing at Fairview General Hospital School of Nursing, earning her license as a registered nurse with the Class of 1974. At Camp Christian in August of 1973, Terri met Ralph. Their marriage on August 2, 1975, marked the beginning of a loving and enduring bond rooted in faith and mutual care. She devoted much of her life to caring for others—not only through her decades-long nursing career, but also in her roles as a loving wife, mother, Grammie, and friend. Her calm presence, subtle wisdom, and gentle nature brought comfort to all who knew her. As a lifelong Disciples of Christ member, Terri was very active in her church community on many levels, faithfully supporting her husband’s ministry and serving in many roles at several congregations—including as Director of Christian Education at Bailey Road Christian Church, as an elder at Mentor Christian Church, and as a cherished part of the community at her most recent church home, Old South Church (UCC). She had a creative spirit and loved all kinds of crafts, especially cross-stitch. Terri was an enthusiastic member of the Lake Erie Stitching Group, where she enjoyed both the art and the fellowship. She found great joy in preparing and sharing meals with family and friends and was known for her delicious homemade pies. One of her most cherished traditions was gathering with family at Christmastime to bake molasses cookies—not just for the treats, but for the time spent together. The tradition began with her grandma, was skillfully carried on by her mom, and became a meaningful part of Terri’s own family life—one that will continue with her children and grandchildren. Terri also enjoyed watching movies at the theater—a regular outing with her husband—and her grandchildren fondly remember being “rescued” from day care to catch a show. Her grandchildren also treasure the simple joy of rolling coins together, just one of many moments that made time with “Grammie” so special. Terri will be remembered for her sweet sense of humor, her beautiful smile, and the warmth she shared so freely—whether through kind words or a comforting hug. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and quiet strength—and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her. Survivors include her husband of nearly 50 years, Rev. Ralph S. Wearstler; children, Emily (Dave) Kalina, Amber Wearstler, and Trevor Wearstler; grandchildren, Haylie and Jackson Kalina; siblings, Gary (Patti) Wolford, Patti Grezlik, and David (Karin) Wolford; sister-in-law, Gail (Bob) McConville; brother-in-law, Mark (Cathy) Wearstler and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loving family members and friends. A celebration of Terri’s life will be held at 12pm on August 2nd. For more details and to RSVP go to https://evite.me/mdJ8d3ehbN. The service will be led by Rev. Brenda Waddell and Rev. Terry Bartlett. Private family entombment will be held at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Seville, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, to honor Terri’s memory, donations may be made to the food pantry at Old South Church in Kirtland, OH, Camp Christian in Marysville, OH, or to a favorite charity that holds special meaning to you. Arrangements entrusted to the Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Ave., Mentor, Ohio 44060. Offer condolences at www.brunners.com

Terri L. Wearstler

December 1, 1952 - May 21, 2025