Terrie Ann Behrendt, 69, a longtime resident of Turpin, Okla., transitioned to her Heavenly home July 10, 2026.

Born Oct. 12, 1956 in Wichita Falls, Texas to Bob Murry and Helen Harper, Terrie was the first of four children. As Bob served in the military, the family moved several times, allowing Terrie to spend her childhood in Abilene and Salina, as well as Perryton, Texas and Liberal.

Terrie was an avid reader with a wide variety of interests. Her collection included works on faith and religion, science fiction, westerns, and many other genres. Her love of books began early. Her first job was at the library in Abilene. Her siblings fondly recall while they spent their days playing outside, Terrie could often be found happily reading in her room. By the time she was ready to join them, they were usually worn out and finished for the day.

Terrie met Ted Behrendt in 1976, and they were married Nov. 12, 1976. Their union was blessed with 50 years together and three children. Terrie was a devoted wife and loving mother who found great joy in watching her grandchildren grow and was especially blessed to meet her first great-grandchild.

Terrie stood beside Ted as he built T&T Small Engines in Turpin. The business became well known throughout the community for servicing and repairing lawn and garden equipment. Terrie faithfully managed the accounting and inventory, keeping the business running smoothly behind the scenes. Over the years, she also attended certification classes with Ted and their son, Josiah, to learn various repair procedures and processes.

Terrie took great pride in her gardening. Each year she carefully tended many raised beds filled with vegetables and flowers. She and Ted enjoyed watching their yard flourish and appreciated the beauty, colors, and peacefulness of God’s creation.

She also enjoyed many forms of sewing and needlework. Terrie created beautifully cross-stitch pieces and often spent her evenings crocheting blankets and other handmade gifts while watching television with Ted. Many of her creations become treasured keepsakes for family and friends.

Fishing was another pastime Terrie enjoyed with her family, although there is still friendly debate about how much actual fishing, she did. Some remember her as someone who could certainly hold her own while fishing from local bridges, ponds, and lakes. Others recall finding her with a good book in hand enjoying the peaceful surroundings and the company of those she loved. Ted especially loved taking Terrie fishing, carefully setting up her poles and lines so they could spend quiet time together outdoors.

Terrie’s greatest love was her family. She helped her mother, Helen, at the Hill Street Antique Mall and was always willing to lend a helping hand. She will be remembered as a devoted daughter, loving wife, caring mother, proud grandmother, and treasured great-grandmother whose kindness and steady love touched many.

Terrie was preceded in death by her father, Bob Murry; her stepfather, Jim Lee Harper; and her brother, Brett Roper.

She is survived by her mother, Helen Harper of Turpin, Okla.; her beloved husband, Teddy R. Behrendt of Turpin, Okla.; her daughter, Becky (Matthew) Bridenstine of Temple, Ga.; her son, Josiah (Cynthia) Behrendt of Turpin, Okla.; and her daughter, Jessica (Michael) Rodgers of Turpin, Okla. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Brianna, Alexis, Zachery Behrendt, and Braxton Rodgers; her great-grandchild, Lyla Ann Behrendt, and her siblings, Dan (Marla) Murry of Salina, Jody (Nancy) Murry of Madison, Ala., and Dawn (Bart) Eby of Harvest, Ala.

Terrie’s life was a testimony of quiet faithfulness, steadfast love, and unwavering devotion to her family. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, beautiful memories, and family who will forever cherish the time they shared with her.

• Visitation will be at 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 16, 2026 at Hornung Family Funeral Home at 1212 W. 2nd Street in Liberal. The family will be present to greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, July 17, 2026 at the Turpin Baptist Church at 212 Reed Street in Turpin, Okla. Senior Pastor Dan Cox will be presiding.

Burial will follow at Blue Mound Cemetery in Balko, Okla.

Memorials are suggested to Turpin Community Food Pantry or Liberal Memorial Library in care of Hornung Family Funeral Home, 1212 W 2nd Street, Liberal, KS 67901.

Condolences may be left at www.hornungfuneralhome.com.

Paid obituary