The family of Deanna McAlister announces her peaceful passing on July 13, 2023 in Turlock. She was 84 years old.
Born in Parlier, CA, the family moved to Arkansas for a period of time and then returned to Kerman, CA, where she met the love of her life, Doice McAlister. They were married on July 22, 1954. Eventually, they began a service station business in the small town of Kerman, but after a few years they announced their calling of full-time ministry. Deanna was exceedingly supportive and a huge part of their ministry as a pastor’s wife and teacher of the scriptures. She always accompanied the services with her gifted piano playing during their 50-year ministry until retirement in 2005. They had found a home in Turlock and pastored the Free Will Baptist Church for 37 years. Deanna enjoyed being an active part of the congregation for many years.
She is survived by her children, Terry McAlister of Merced, CA and Vicki McWells of Sonora, CA; brother in law Jerrel McAlister of Turlock and sister in law Barbara Dobbert of Stokedale, N.C. She was also very proud to have four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Deanna was preceded in death by her husband, Doice McAlister on April 27th 2010.
Services will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, July 21st at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery.
Leave a Condolence