Terry Cuales Evangelista

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Terry Cuales Evangelista, a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend, who left us too soon on February 6, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Born on June 15, 1976, in Honolulu, Hawaii, to Edilberto and Priscilla Evangelista, Terry grew up surrounded by love, laughter, and the spirit of ohana. He was preceded in death by his mother, Priscilla, whom he cherished dearly.

Terry was a proud graduate of Waipahu High School, where he discovered his love for music. A talented saxophonist, he often performed for his mother, channeling his inner Kenny G and filling the room with soulful melodies. Some of his favorite concerts took place right on the lanai, where he played under the Hawaiian sky, bringing his mother joy with every note. His passion for music extended beyond home-he played for the University of Hawaii marching band for several years, embracing the camaraderie and energy that came with every performance.

Family and food were at the heart of everything Terry did. He never showed up to a gathering empty-handed-often bringing his own Tupperware to ensure he could take home leftovers. He had a way of making every moment special, whether it was sharing a meal, making someone laugh, or simply being present. His love for the casino was about time spent with family and friends, excitement of winning something, chanting "still alive, still alive", good food and free sodas.

Terry had a larger-than-life personality that drew people in. He made friends everywhere he went, spreading joy effortlessly. A true master of synchronized swimming (at least in spirit), he never took himself too seriously and always found ways to make others smile. His love for family, good food, going to the movies and a day spent at ROCKLAHOMA soaking in the music and the memories.

Above all, Terry adored his children-Tristan and Tai Evangelista. His greatest joy was being their dad, and he made every moment with them count. From Tuesday movie nights to everyday adventures, he was their rock, their laughter, and their biggest cheerleader.

He leaves behind his father, Edilberto along with his wife, Maribeth; his siblings, Trissy Evangelista (Renato Ingreso), Michael Evangelista, Michele Evangelista-Lehnus (Josh), and Donny Evangelista (Elsa); as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends who were lucky enough to know him.

Terry was fun, kind, and full of life. His presence lit up every room, and his absence leaves a void that can never be filled. Though he may no longer be with us, his spirit, his laughter, and his love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A celebration of Terry's life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 4:00pm-7:00pm at the Hilton Garden Inn, 420 West Albany Street, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012. Please wear Hawaiian attire and come to celebrate Terry with food, family and friends. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family through: CashApp: $JoshuaLehnus or Venmo: @Joshua-Lehnus .