Terry Lee Rylant, beloved husband, father, and coach, passed away at the age of 61 on October 31, 2016 in San Diego, California of complications due to Lewy Body Dementia. He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Imelda, and their daughters Rebekah and Rachel.
Terry was born March 20, 1955 in Lake Charles, Louisiana to Lonnie Boyd Rylant and Shirley Ann Rylant. The oldest of 5 children, Terry spent his youth in Texas, helping run the family business and taking care of his four siblings. In 1975, he joined the Navy, which brought him to San Diego, where he would spend the rest of his life. After the Navy, he completed college, law school, and practiced law in San Diego for several years before beginning at Horizon Christian Fellowship and Academy. For over 20 years, Terry served at Horizon as teacher and coach to many students and athletes.
Terry was passionate about his faith and coaching. To him, coaching was more than just the physical strength and conditioning of an athlete; it was also the opportunity to pray and share the good news of Jesus Christ with every athlete that entered the weight room. He was constantly looking for every opportunity to encourage and motivate students and athletes to do and be their best.
Terry will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and the many athletes he mentored and coached.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 26th at 2:00 in the auditorium at Horizon Christian Fellowship (5331 Mt. Alifan Dr., San Diego, CA 92111). A reception will be held immediately following the service. All are welcome to come celebrate Terry's life.