We remember the life of Terry Van Oswald Sr., who entered into the presence of The Lord on December 09, 2025, while at his home in Palm Bay, Florida at the age of 87. 

Terry was born in Atlanta, Georgia. He graduated from Palm Beach High School and went on to play football at Stetson University. He later attended The Florida Institute of Biblical Studies, where he earned a Bachelor of Religious Education, and in 1981 became an ordained Reverend. 

He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1955 to 1963, during which time he was honored with the American Spirit Honor Medal. 

Terry shared 52 years of marriage with his wife, Jo-Anne Dewar Oswald. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose life reflected service, leadership, faith, and dedication. 

He worked at the Kennedy Space Center as Branch Manager of Business Applications, then as a teacher and high school principal at Brevard Christian School, and as a Document Control Supervisor at FPL’s St. Lucie Nuclear Power Plant before retiring. 

Terry enjoyed fishing, personal fitness, and proudly earned a black belt in Martial Arts; however, his greatest joy was spending time with his family. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Oswald and father, Wilson Williams. 

He is survived by his wife, Jo-Anne; their children Jennifer (Andrew) Bargo, Jessica Abney, Dr. Adam (Allison) Oswald, as well as Terry Van Oswald, Jr. and Kimberly Brock, from a previous marriage; his cherished grandchildren Michael, Malana, Mia, Riley, Noah, Emily, Luke, Logan, Terry III, Tiffany, Trace, Brandi and Brandon; and eight great-grandchildren. He is also lovingly remembered by his brother-in-law Philip (Jan) Dewar and their children, as well as his former daughter-in-law Jeannie Berwanger. 

A private committal service will be held at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. 

In memory of Terry, please consider a donation to Health First Hospice. The family extends a special thank you to Hospice Nurse Tania and Dr. Ruddy Ruiz for their compassionate care and support. 

Terry will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. 

“To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.”

— 2 Corinthians 5:8