Terry Helois Geaslin, (otherwise known as Santa Claus), 61, of Newport, Arkansas, passed away on December 13, 2024. He was born in Newport on August 3, 1963, to Helois and Lona Bell (Lott) Geaslin.
Terry grew up in Tuckerman and graduated from Tuckerman High School in 1981. A man of faith, he was a member of the Church of Christ. Terry retired from Tuckerman High School after years of dedicated service as a bus driver, score keeper, and bus shop attendant where he became a familiar and friendly face to students and staff alike. After his retirement he continued to drive a bus for both Tuckerman and Newport schools and worked for the City of Campbell Station.
Terry was a dedicated worker throughout his life. Starting at Walmart at age 16, he later ran scoreboards at ball games, worked tirelessly for local community water companies, and contributed part-time to R&R Vending. His commitment and service to his community were constants in his life.
Known for his love of Christmas, Terry shone brightly each holiday season as Tuckerman’s official Santa Claus. Children and families throughout the community looked forward to seeing him in his iconic role, bringing joy and magic to the season. His warm personality and genuine love for others made him the perfect Santa, creating memories cherished by many.
Terry was a passionate supporter of the Tuckerman Bulldogs and was actively involved in school sporting events. As the scorekeeper for school games and a willing volunteer, he left an indelible mark on Tuckerman’s athletic programs. His dedication extended far beyond the court and field, as he enthusiastically championed the Tuckerman School District in countless ways.
In addition to his contributions to the community, Terry was a talented handyman known for his willingness to help anyone in need. He approached every task with humility and a generous spirit, even carpenter work mending fences and porches.
Terry’s legacy is one of kindness, service, and a deep love for his community. He will be remembered as a man who brought light to others’ lives, whether as Santa Claus, a loyal Bulldog supporter, or a friend willing to lend a helping hand.
He had an unwavering love for his family and always put them first. He was a pillar of support, ready to offer help, guidance, and unconditional love whenever it was needed. His family meant everything to him, and he would do anything for them. He didn’t know the word No to his family. He was the best Pop to his grandkids and grandpa to countless other kids.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Carl Ray Geaslin and Arnold Geaslin; his son, Jacob Trey Geaslin; and his sister, Brenda Enlow.
He is survived by the love of his life and his wife of 38 years Melinda Henley Geaslin of the home; his daughter, Tara Guth and her husband Daniel of Newport; his son Wesley Geaslin, of Newport; his brothers, Alfred Geaslin of Searcy, Bill Geaslin and wife Elora of Searcy, Eugene Enlow of Miami, Oklahoma; his sisters, Carolyn Renee Hembrey and her husband, Dickie of Tuckerman, Ynette Webb and her husband, John of Jonesboro, Velma Turner of Tuckerman, and Connie Faye Gates of Tuckerman; his grandchildren, Jacob Guth of Newport, Wesley Geaslin II of Newport, Jaxon Guth of Newport, Chloe Guth of Newport, Willow Geaslin of St. Louis, Missouri; and all of his Tuckerman School children.
Service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at Dillinger Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Brandon Gates officiating. Visitation will be Monday, December 16, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Interment will be at Gracelawn Cemetery.
