Terry Burl Fryrear

Terry Burl Fryrear was born on March 12, 1946, to Jimmy and Sylvia Fryrear, in a humble farmhouse outside of Tuttle, Oklahoma. A small-town boy through and through, he grew up with dirt roads under his boots, faith in his heart, and a deep respect for hard work, heritage, and family. He passed away on August 13, 2025, at the age of 79, surrounded by the people who meant the world to him.

Terry’s greatest joy and lifelong companion was his wife, Susan Fryrear. They married on September 26, 1970, and spent nearly 55 years walking through life hand in hand. Their marriage was built on love, trust, and a deep spiritual bond. Whether they were traveling together, working side by side, riding around town, or sitting quietly on the porch, Terry and Susan shared a connection that never faded.

Together, they raised four children: John Fryrear and wife Aimee of Blanchard, Tara Johnson and husband Travis of Tuttle, Travis Fryrear and wife Angie of Blanchard, and Carrie Law and husband Kristopher of Sulphur, Oklahoma. Terry was a fiercely devoted father—his children always knew where they stood with him: at the center of his heart. He stood behind them, fought for them, prayed over them, and never missed a chance to tell them how proud he was. He led by example, teaching them how to live with integrity, show compassion, and put faith into action.

He was also a proud and loving grandfather to twelve grandchildren—Jacob Johnson, Shayla Bratcher, Caleb Johnson, Conner Fryrear, Jonathan Bratcher, Shelby Johnson, Levi Johnson, Travis “Bubba” Fryrear, Eva “Kady” Fryrear, Brendan Fryrear, Kiara Johnson, and Nathan Law—and a great-grandfather to nine. His presence at family gatherings, his warm encouragement, and his gentle sense of humor will be deeply missed.

Terry was a proud Chickasaw citizen who honored his Native heritage. He carried it with quiet strength and passed that pride on to his family as part of the legacy he cherished. He loved listening to tribal flutes and cultural songs, often finding peace and connection in the music that spoke to his roots.

He lived his faith boldly and without hesitation. Terry didn’t just believe in Christ—he shared it, lived it, and let it shape the way he treated others. He was a man of generosity and grace, always ready to lend a hand, speak a kind word, or offer help without being asked. He never met a stranger and made everyone feel like they belonged.

Terry enjoyed the simple things in life. He liked to fish, tend his garden, and take unhurried drives around town with Susan. He loved to adventure to all the local garage sales, always on the lookout for a unique find or a small treasure. He enjoyed collecting knick-knacks, and even more, he enjoyed giving them away. Whether it was something thoughtful, funny, or just plain odd, if he thought it would make someone smile, he’d hand it over with a grin. He also loved watching Oklahoma State football and cheering on the Cowboys every fall. He found peace in the quiet moments—especially those spent side by side with the people he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy and Sylvia Fryrear, and three siblings: Little Jimmy Fryrear, Tommy Fryrear, and Linda Massy. He is survived by his brother Bobby Fryrear and seven sisters: Sandra Yochum, Pat Nathaniel, Joyce Dyer, Donna Collins, Christine Fryrear, Mary Murphy, and Karen Damron.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Heritage Family Baptist Church in Tuttle, with Brother Larry Steverson officiating.

Terry’s life was centered on faith, family, and love. He leaves behind a legacy of generosity, humility, and steadfast devotion. His example lives on in the hearts of his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who had the blessing of knowing him.