A joint UCC-ONA statement on the passing of Rev. Derek Terry

The following is a joint statement from United Church of Christ General Minister and President/CEO, the Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson, and the Open and Affirming Coalition Board Chair, the Rev. Kevin E. Tindell on the untimely passing of the Rev. Derek A. Terry, Executive Director of the Open and Affirming Coalition.

We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of our sibling Rev. Derek Terry and offer condolences to his family, his congregation, and the community that supported and loved him. An incomparable and fearless leader, Rev. Terry, touched the lives of everyone he encountered throughout his ministry in the United Church of Christ, and as the Executive Director of the Open and Affirming Coalition.

Rev. Terry brought to his calling a powerful voice to conversations on civil rights, racial and social justice, LGBTQ+ inclusion, income inequality, body positivity, and courageous living. His preaching and teachings called people to deeper compassion, creative resistance, and a more inclusive vision of the church. His big heart, warm spirit, and passion for bringing justice to the world will be missed by all who knew, worked alongside, and partnered with him in the struggle. Rev. Terry’s passing is a devastating loss to many for whom he was family, friend, mentor, and confidant.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Terry family, the St. Peter’s United Church of Christ in Cincinnati, where Rev. Terry served as pastor, the ONA Coalition, the many colleagues who had the pleasure of working alongside Rev. Terry, and all the lives of those he touched along the way.

Details about celebrations honoring the life of Rev. Terry are pending and will be shared when they become available.

Karen Georgia Thompson
General Minister and President/CEO
United Church of Christ

Rev. Kevin E. Tindell
Board Chair of the Open and Affirming Coalition

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