Terry Lynn Campbell's Obituary
Terry Lynn Campbell, age 79 of Bixby, Oklahoma, gained his wings on July 16, 2026.
He was born on June 26, 1947 in Beaver, Oklahoma to Bill and Gail Campbell. He was preceded in death by his parents, William "Bill" Thomas Campbell and Olive Gail Campbell.
Terry is survived by his loving wife, Sue Campbell of 57 years; his 3 grateful and blessed children, Bryan Campbell of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Jerod Campbell of Bixby, Oklahoma, and Deanna Gum (Corey) of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; and cherished grandchildren, Kendon, Rylynn, and Emree Gum. He is also survived by 2 brothers, Tim Campbell (Barbara) of Guymon, Oklahoma; Charles Campbell (Carol) of Glenpool, Oklahoma; along with 6 nephews, Troy, Tom, Chad, Jason, Heath, and Matt; and 3 nieces, Kristi, Amy, and Amy.
Terry made his decision to follow the Lord and had a deep love for the gospel. He was a shining example of God's love.
Terry attended grade school with his older brother Tim, who managed to get him into trouble on numerous occasions, in a one-room schoolhouse in Elmwood, Oklahoma, transferring later to Garrett and graduating from Beaver High School. He attended Northwestern State University where he met the love of his life and graduated with a B.S. in Accounting in 1969. Terry married his best friend, Sue, on July 19, 1969 in Alva, Oklahoma. He was drafted to the Army in January 1970 and left for Vietnam in 1971. While serving in Vietnam, Terry was awarded the Purple Heart. He returned safely in December 1971. Terry and Sue moved to Bixby in 1977 where he put his education to good use by working in the accounting departments of several Tulsa area companies for nearly 40 years along with a children's clothing consignment store; he helped operate with his wife Sue.
Terry had a profound love of music. Whether playing the guitar, piano, or singing, there was often a familiar song being sung when he was around. One of the grandkids' favorite things about staying the night was when "Papa" would grab his guitar and sing them a song before bed. You would often find him with a brownie in hand, listening to his favorite bluegrass or Don Williams. Terry loved working in the yard, his own and his kids, and took great pride in it. His beautiful yard remains adorned with the flag that he was proud to have defended, and he ensured that his family knew its importance. Family always came first for Terry, and his love for all of them never faltered. "Love you all". Terry was a St. Louis Cardinals fan from a young age, listening on the radio from the panhandle where he grew up. This love of the "birds on the bat" was passed down to multiple generations. Terry enjoyed the simple things in life, being outside with nature and the sounds of the peaceful doves that he looked forward to hearing more recently. He was affectionately known as "Papa" to his grandkids and enjoyed spending time at their games, Veteran's assemblies, birthday celebrations, pumpkin patch visits, even showing up to help with trips to the Dr and haircuts. If his grandkids asked, Papa showed up. Terry leaves a legacy of integrity, resilience, and unconditional love. Those wishing to make a memorial donation may do so to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) at www.dav.org or a charity of their choice. "Love you all"
What’s your fondest memory of Terry?
What’s a lesson you learned from Terry?
Share a story where Terry's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Terry you’ll never forget.
How did Terry make you smile?