Terry J. Lister Sr

Terry J. Lister Sr., 64, of Ashtabula, passed away on March 5, 2026, in Cortland, Ohio. Born on July 7, 1961, in Ashtabula, he was the son of the late Gene Lister and Marilyn Lister. A 1979 graduate of Harbor High School, Terry lived most of his life in Ashtabula, where he built a life centered on family, friends, and the things that brought him joy.

In his youth, Terry was a gifted athlete who participated in football, baseball, and wrestling, later becoming a boxer known as “Lightnin’” Lister. He cherished 70s music and attending concerts, and he found deep peace in the outdoors. He loved spending time at the beach, often saying there was no bad day at the beach, and he enjoyed camping at Nelson Ledges. An avid Cleveland Browns fan, he was thrilled to attend a game with his son in Denver last year. Above all, Terry loved life, giving back to others, and making people laugh.

He worked as a roofer for many years before moving to Warren, Ohio, where he served as a resident manager in recovery programs. This work gave him great purpose as he helped others on their journey to sobriety. For the past three years, he worked at New Day Recovery in Niles, Ohio, providing transportation services and forming many lasting friendships along the way.

Terry is survived by his mother, Marilyn Lister; his children, Terry Lister Jr. of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, and Tori Lister of Ashtabula; his grandchildren, Ta’Leah, Delonte, Taveya, Kamia’rae, and Tonya; his brother, Tim Lister; his sister-in-law, Traci Lister; his niece, Alexis Lister; his nephew, Gabe Lister; and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Gene Lister, and his brother, James Lister.