Terry Linn Karr, age 73, of Savannah, Missouri, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on September 15, 2025. He was born on March 18, 1952, in Bolckow, Missouri, to Charles Cloyd Karr and Olive Elizabeth Karr (Hopkins). Terry’s father, Charles, passed away when Terry was just four years old. In March of 1962, Olive married Elton Heckman, who lovingly stepped into the role of father for Terry and his siblings.
Terry attended North Andrew Schools, where he graduated in 1970. It was during these years that he met his lifelong partner, Betty Ellen Fries. They were married on January 8, 1971, and together they raised three daughters. Terry went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from Northwest Missouri State University, followed by a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Specialist Certification in Superintendency.
Terry began his career in education as a teacher at Fillmore, Missouri, and later taught in Rosendale and Savannah, Missouri. His passion for education led him to serve as an assistant principal in Savannah, and eventually, he became the Superintendent at King City R-1 Schools, where he concluded his distinguished career.
In addition to his role as an educator, Terry was a dedicated coach who spent many years coaching football and girls' basketball. His love for sports continued throughout his life, and he was a familiar face at his grandchildren's sporting events, always ready with encouragement and coaching advice.
Terry was also an avid hunter and fisherman. Some of his most treasured friendships were formed with those who shared his passion for these activities. Whether in the field or on the water, Terry found joy in nature and in the camaraderie of those who joined him in pursuit of it.
Throughout his life he exhibited incredible resilience in the face of adversity. For 36 years, Terry courageously battled Parkinson's disease. Despite the challenges, he never let the illness define him. His strength and perseverance were an inspiration to all who knew him. He continued to live life fully, maintaining his sense of humor, his love for family, and his passion for the things he loved most, including sports, teaching, and spending time with his grandchildren. Terry’s fight against Parkinson’s was a testament to his unwavering spirit and his dedication to living each day with grace and determination.
Terry's marriage to Betty was a shining example of commitment, love, and partnership. Through the ups and downs of life, including health struggles, they stood together as a united front. Their 54 years of marriage served as an admirable example to their children, grandchildren, and all who knew them. Terry and Betty’s love was marked by deep respect, kindness, and mutual support, even in the toughest times. Their unwavering commitment to each other was a living testament to the strength of their bond and the lasting impact of a loving partnership.
Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Cloyd Karr, Olive Heckman, and Elton Heckman, and his sister, Sadie (Junior) Crail.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Betty Karr, of the home; his three daughters, Dottie (Dan) Stoll of King City, Addie (Chad) Hunter of King City, and Buffie (Brian) Price of St. Joseph; his sister, Betty (Ivan) Hendricks of Rosendale; his brothers, David (Judy) Karr of Savannah and Larry (Ruth) Heckman of Savannah; his grandchildren, Shelby (Trevor) Gartner, Cheyanne (Kyle) Hefley, Raven Price, Brant (Elaina) Price, Tyler (Vanessa) Hunter, Taylin (Mason) Graff, Taryn Hunter, ; as well as his great-grandchildren, Oakley and Oran Hefley, Margot Gartner and Baby Graff.
Terry will be remembered for his kind heart, unwavering dedication to family, and his passion for both education and the great outdoors. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, strength, and a deep love for those who knew him. His family and friends will cherish the memories of the times shared with him, and he will be greatly missed.
Rest in peace, Terry. Your legacy lives on in the lives you touched.
A celebration of Terry’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, September 20, 2025 at the First Baptist Church, King City, MO under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home, King City, MO. The family will receive friends from 1:00-3:00 p.m. Saturday at the church. No graveside services will be held. Memorial contributions can be made to the Freudenthal Center For Parkinson's Disease in care of Roberson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 153, King City, MO 64463.
