Terry Birchfield

Terry Birchfield, 65, of rural Marshall, IL, passed away surrounded by his family in the comfort of his home on June 20, 2024. He was born on October 15, 1958, in Terre Haute, IN, the son of Philip B. Birchfield & Della Mae (Taylor) Birchfield, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Mary Ann Birchfield (in infancy) and Jennie Milam; by his brother-in-law, Brent Thompson; by two nephews, Jerry Alan Birchfield and Christopher Milam; and by his grandsons, Brendan Alan Birchfield and Blaine David Ray Ridgley.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Jacqueline Birchfield; by his sons & daughters-in-law, Steven Philip & Kendra Birchfield (Casey, IL) and Dustin Fredrick & Heather Birchfield (Marshall, IL); by his grandchildren, Aiden Birchfield, Peyton Birchfield, Kyson Birchfield, Brayleigh Birchfield, Braxtin Birchfield, Mackenzie Sanders, and Briana Sanders; by his brothers, Gary Birchfield (Richland, MO), Larry Birchfield (Hoffman, IL), and Doit & Brandi Birchfield (Brazil, IN); by his sister & brother-in-law, Julie Lackey & Jeff Lambert (Greenville, IL); by several nieces and nephews; and by many boys he took in as adopted sons, including David Austin Denman and Nick Wingo.

Terry's 65 years were a testament to resilience, hard work, and deep affection for his family and the countless lives he touched. He grew up in the Martinsville, IL, area and was a proud 1977 graduate of Martinsville High School. He soon moved to the West Union area, where he met his future wife, Jacqueline Thompson, at the West Union Christian Church. Despite their contrasting demeanors--the 'good girl' and the 'bad boy'--their love was a match made in heaven, culminating in marriage on February 3, 1979, after Jacqueline's early graduation to become his bride.

Professionally, Terry was as reliable as the sunrise. His early days were spent logging and farming alongside his father until his dad suffered a tragic accident that shifted the course of Terry's career. Undeterred, he found a new path at Quality Lime on March 15, 1979. Starting as a dump truck driver, he quickly showcased his innate talent for operating heavy machinery, eventually becoming a sought-after lead loader operator before leaving after 20 years of service. Terry's career was diverse, including a stint in truck driving upon his brother's encouragement and years spent as a prover with Bolin Enterprises. The final leg of his professional journey was spent logging with his son Dustin, and though they often butted heads (which should come as no surprise to those who knew him), it was a job he truly enjoyed. Regardless of where he was working, Terry's life was one of routine and precision: he rose early, savored his strong morning coffee, and valued a structured day. Whether operating heavy machinery or removing his cowboy boots after a long day, he did so with meticulous care, his hands as steady as his character.

His interests painted the picture of a man with a robust exterior and a tender soul. Terry's stubborn kindness shone like a beacon to family and friends. Though he was quick to call you a 'jackwagon', he was also the rock you could always lean on, a man who would defend his loved ones fiercely and bring home 'lost things' to nurture and protect. His home was a sanctuary to many, with numerous boys over the years finding a father figure in him. Terry's influence extended beyond his home. He dedicated years to coaching baseball and football, instilling the values of hard work and perseverance in the kids who played for him. He had a soft spot for the underdog and was known to take players no one else wanted. Needless to say, they never had a winning record, but it was a point of pride knowing that they never came out in last place.

A connoisseur of Western movies, Terry was often found nodding off to the adventures of John Wayne and Clint Eastwood. His style was a reflection of his personality--Western shirts, big belt buckles, and cowboy boots were his signature, matched by his love for tractors and the tractor shows he frequented. However, spending time with his family is truly what brought life to his living. Whether it was playing chess, card games, or board games, he treasured every waking moment with those he loved (though his grandkids didn't necessarily appreciate his loud, early morning wake-up calls!)

As we bid farewell to Terry Birchfield, we celebrate a life that was lived with vigor, resilience, and an immense capacity for love. His snores, which once echoed through the halls of his home, will be missed, but the memories he created will undoubtedly reverberate in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

A time of visitation will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 23rd, at the Prust-Hosch Funeral Home in West Union, IL. Due to a road closure for the Christmas for Kids Car Show, it is suggested that attendees detour to Washington St next to the gas station. Funeral services will immediately follow the visitation and be held at 3:00 p.m. with Tom Calhoun officiating. Burial will be in the Mount Pleasant Cemetery, rural Martinsville, IL. In honor of his heart for children, memorial contributions may be made to "St. Jude Children's Research Hospital", and memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home.