Terry Castle Baughman

Terry Castle Baughman was born on May 1, 1943, in Preston, Mississippi, and passed away on December 22, 2025, in Huntsville, Alabama.

Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon Castle Baughman and Jessie Pearl McDonald Baughman, and by his brother-in-law, Fred Wessel.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Nancy, and their three children, Denise Baughman Bishop (Mike), Diane Baughman Ames (Dan), and Darin Baughman. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved so well: Justin Bishop (Heather, Anna Rivers, and Chapel); Dawn Cano (Jonathan, Dawson, Preston, and Harrison); Andrew Bishop (Britney and Hallie); Dana Walker (Matt, Skylar, and Luke); Daniel Ames (Susie and Mateo); Evan Baughman; and Emma Baughman. He is also survived by his sister, Jean Wessel Templeton, a host of nieces and nephews, and his cousin, John Henry Baughman.

In 1960, Terry married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Cummings, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, where they began raising their family. A decade later, in 1970, Terry and Nancy moved their young family to Huntsville, Alabama, to join his sister and brother-in-law in their growing Burger King franchise, Wesfam Restaurants, Inc.

Terry’s unmatched work ethic, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to operational excellence propelled him into leadership. He earned the deep respect and loyalty of Wesfam’s employees, many of whom remained with the company for decades, a rare distinction in the fast-food industry. During a season of significant transition and growth, Terry provided steady leadership and guidance, ultimately retiring as President and Chief Operating Officer after more than 35 years of devoted service. Under his leadership, Wesfam achieved national recognition for its high operating standards, restaurant beautification, and record-setting sales volumes.

Following his retirement in 2006, Terry continued to exemplify a strong work ethic and, with Nancy at his side, spent more than a decade serving with the Alabama Baptist Campers on Mission. Together, they cherished the time spent traveling in their RV and completing volunteer projects for churches and Christian organizations. Terry was a faithful member of Mount Zion Baptist Church and also enjoyed being an amateur ham radio operator (WK4B).

Above all else, his family was the greatest joy of his life. The same integrity and high standards that defined Terry’s professional life were also evident in his home. He was a devoted husband, a steady and loving father, and a deeply invested grandfather and great-grandfather. Terry believed in doing things the right way, which included making space for family gatherings and holiday traditions, recognizing the importance of those moments together. He made it a priority to show up consistently for those he loved, and his steady presence has shaped generations to come.

1 Thessalonians 4:13 reminds us that we do not grieve as those without hope, but with confidence in the promise of heaven and the assurance of eternal life.

Visitation will be held at Mount Zion Baptist Church (228 Mount Zion Road, Huntsville) on Monday, December 29, 2025 beginning at 1:00 PM, followed by a service celebrating Terry’s life at 2:00 PM. A private graveside service for the family will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the Mount Zion Baptist Church “Project18|28” building fund (www.mzbc.net or 228 Mount Zion Road, Huntsville, AL 35806).