Terry Lee Mize

Terry Lee Mize, age 76, a native of Gainesville, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, June 19, 2025, following an extended illness.

Born in New Holland, on Thursday, March 17, 1949, the son of the late Frank and Lucille (Seagraves) Mize. Terry graduated from North Hall High School, upon graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy. He served aboard the U.S.S. Kearsarge, and later as a helicopter door-gunner with the elite HAL-3 Seawolf Squadron.

After surviving a severe helicopter crash, and later being shot two weeks before he was due to rotate out, he received two Purple Hearts for his bravery.

On his return home, he began to serve his community by working for Hall County Fire Services. He retired in 2004 after 32 ½ years.

Mr. Mize is survived by his wife of 53 years, Brenda (Stephens) Mize; sons Matthew (Tuesday) Mize, and Michael (Natalie) Mize. Seven grandchildren: Emily Hunter, Bryce Mize, Asher Mize, Bishop Slater, Raiden Mize, Matthew Mize Jr., and Myles Slater. One great-granddaughter, Elizabeth Jean Mize. Siblings Mary Ellen Brown, Louise (Doug) Helton, Richard (Betty) Mize, Laura (Robert) Rider, Ross (Cheryl) Mize; sisters-in-law Judith Pace, Lynn (Jim) Matuska, Cyndi Stephens; and brother-in-law’s, Dennis (Jenny) Stephens and John (Michelle) Stephens. As well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Lucille (Seagraves) Mize, and his son, Christopher Alan Mize.

Funeral Services are scheduled for Sunday, June 22, 2025 at 2:00 PM, in the Chapel at Memorial Park Funeral Home. Reverend Glendon Williams and Reverend Billy Pittman will officiate.

Family will receive friends from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM, and from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, on Saturday, June 21, 2025, also at Memorial Park Funeral Home, on Memorial Park Drive.