A memorial gathering for Terry G. Bignell, 73, of North Bend, will be held from 2:00pm to 4:00 pm, Wednesday, January 15, 2020 at Coos Bay Chapel, 685 Anderson Avenue in Coos Bay.
Terry was born August 24, 1946 in Rhinelander, Wisconsin to Harry “Bud” and Betty S. (Thompson) Evans. She passed away January 8, 2020 at her residence in North Bend.
Terry’s early years were spent in Wisconsin, where she met her future husband Donald LeRoy Bignell. During her teenage years, the family moved to the Oregon coast and she graduated from Marshfield High School. Terry and Don settled in Coos Bay in 1967, were married February 27, 1970 and completed their immediate family with the birth of their daughter Deb and two sons, Cory and Michael.
She loved helping and taking care of others. Terry was a foster parent to many throughout her life and was even named Foster Parent of the year. Family meant everything to her and she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also had a very special bond with her daughter, Deb and son-in-law, Rex, as her and Don did everything together with them.
Terry’s interests were varied. She loved animals and was known to attend an auction from time to time. She even ended up with different critters, including emus and silver-tailed foxes.
Terry and Donald had lots of different business ventures over the years, including black jack tables and real estate, but she was most known for her adult foster homes throughout the area where she provided many with quality care. She was also a member of the Eagles and worked for both the Eagles and the Elks.
Michael, Cory and Deb went on to bless Terry with an amazing 20 grandchildren, which also lead to 14 great-grandchildren. Terry will also be lovingly remembered by her son in law, Rex; sister, Thelma McCreery; as well as countless others that called her mom or grandma.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Donald Bignell and sister, Erma Hill.
Arrangements are under the care of Coos Bay Chapel, 541-267-3131. Friends and family are encouraged to sign the online guestbook at www.coosbayareafunerals.com
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