Rev. Terry Neal Thomas, 72, of Palm Coast, FL, went to his heavenly home on Monday, August 30, 2021, with his family by his side. He was born in Centerville, IA, on November 16th, 1948. Terry was preceded in death by his mother and father, Betty and LaVerne Thomas. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Diane; daughters Tiffany Thomas, Theresa Thomas Chase (Brandon Chase, son-in-law); and his brother Dale Alan Thomas. 

Terry started playing drums at the young age of 8 which led to playing professionally by the age of 14. Through his high school and college years, in addition to touring (often with his brother, Dale), he graduated from NW Missouri State with a BS in Elementary and Secondary Education (Music Major) and worked as Music Education Teacher and Marching Band Director (Maysville MO). Terry ultimately met the love of his life, Diane Baskovich, when she auditioned to be a singer in his band. In 1983, on the hottest day of the summer, the singer married the drummer, and soon after left the secular music business to follow the Lord’s calling on their lives.

Desiring to serve in his home church, Clearwater First Assembly, Terry’s first ministry job was the janitor, as it was the only position open; but he had a heart to serve and said yes to the call. Over time being faithful where he was planted, he grew in his gifts through never missing an opportunity to learn, attending any class offered, observing to do, and to help fill any need. No task was too menial. He just loved to serve and encourage others. Terry cherished being mentored, which eventually led him to become a graduate of Global University’s Berean School of the Bible in Ministerial Studies and being ordained by the Assemblies of God. In 1999, the Lord gave Terry and Diane a congregation to pastor, serve and encourage in Palm Coast, FL, at Evangel Assembly of God, where they have remained faithful for over 22 years.