Teresa “Terri” Ann Baer, 1953-2022 IMB Photo

Teresa “Terri” Ann Baer, an International Mission Board missionary emeritus who shared the gospel in Chile and Paraguay, died July 1, 2022. She was 68.

Baer was born on July 28, 1953, in Columbus, Ohio, to Elman and Loretta Moore. Baer graduated with the Bachelor of Arts from Capital University in Bexley, Ohio, and a master’s degree from Rockbridge Seminary.

Terri met her husband, Bill, while they were studying at university, and they married in 1974.

Terri worked as a secretary at her childhood church, Parsons Baptist Church in Columbus, Ohio, and a teacher in Fort Worth, Texas.

When seeking missionary appointment, Terri wrote that the pastor and his wife of Parsons Baptist Church, and the church’s Girls’ Auxiliary (now Girls in Action), played a role in her journey to Christian service.

Terri’s pastor asked her if she had ever considered full-time Christian service. Terri committed to pray for the Lord’s direction, not wanting to make a spur-of-the-moment decision. After several months of prayer, she surrendered her life to Christian service during an evening church service.

The Lord also called Bill to ministry service. The Baers moved to Fort Worth where Bill attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. The Lord used Birchman Avenue Baptist Church’s missions emphasis and encouragement from close friends to lead the Baers to seek missionary appointment.

Terri and Bill were appointed as missionaries by the Foreign Mission Board (now International Mission Board), and they served in Chile and Paraguay.

Her family said Terri was passionate about sharing the gospel and discipling women, and she was sought after as a counselor, teacher, speaker and friend. Those close to her said her humility and sincerity won the love and trust of all.

She is survived by her husband, Bill, of 48 years; three sons, Jonathan, David, and Daniel, two daughters in law, Lisa and Kristen; 11 grandchildren, and a 12th expected in August.

A memorial service was held on July 5, 2022, at Second Baptist Church in Springfield, Missouri.

Donations in her memory may be made to the Lottie Moon Offering, IMB, 3806 Monument Avenue, Richmond, VA 23230, or online at Generosity Resource Center – IMB Generosity.

Read an obituary here.