Theresa Marie Hand

Born on November 17, 1950, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Terri was the cherished daughter of Edwin “Bud” and Arlie Nowlan. Raised to have a deep reverence for God and a strong commitment to family, Terri’s life was marked by a firm belief in God, service, and love.

After graduating high school, Terri married Joseph Birmingham and together they welcomed two daughters: Kelly Jo (Birmingham) Martin in 1970 and Kristy Lee (Birmingham) Putts in 1972. She pursued higher education at Eastern Michigan University and earned her Associate’s degree from Washtenaw Community College, later building a successful career as a Director of Human Resources.

After her daughters graduated from high school, Terri relocated to Florida where in 1993 she attended her first Bible fellowship with The Way Ministry. This was a turning point that ignited a lifelong commitment to sharing God’s Word. Recognizing her calling to serve, she entered The Way Corps training in 1997 and graduated in 2000, fully embracing her mission to move God’s Word over the world.

In 2001 Terri moved to Charlotte, North Carolina. In 2004 she married Curtis Hand, Sr. and lovingly welcomed his children—Charissa Peaks, Melisse Brown, and Curtis Hand Jr.—into her heart and home. Together, Curtis and Terri faithfully served as home Bible fellowship coordinators for over two decades, nurturing and caring for God’s family with unwavering devotion.

Terri’s professional life in human resources spanned more than thirty years, equipping her with skills and insight that seamlessly translated into her Christian ministry. She was a beacon of love, light, and grace—touching countless lives with her warmth and compassionate care.

Terri found great joy in spending time with her family and friends, especially her beloved grandchildren: Katelyn Gearhart, Morgan Putts, Jonah Putts, and Winter Rose Earhart. Endearingly called “Gammy”, she was well known for her abundance of heartfelt poetry, great home cooking, love for music, eye for décor, and a warm, inviting home. Her laughter was infectious, her generosity boundless, and her presence a blessing to all who knew her.

Though deeply missed, Terri’s legacy of kindness and joyful service will continue to resonate in the lives she touched. She awaits a glorious reunion at the gathering together, where she will be abundantly rewarded for her faithful walk and unwavering dedication to God’s Word.

What a day of rejoicing that will be!