Art TerKeurst: The Untold Journey of Lysa TerKeurst’s Former Husband

January 25, 2025
4 mins read
Art TerKeurst

Art TerKeurst, a name intertwined with entrepreneurial success, family values, and public scrutiny, is best known as the former husband of celebrated author Lysa TerKeurst. While Lysa’s journey in the spotlight has been well-documented, Art’s story unfolds as a tale of professional accomplishments and personal challenges. In this article, we delve into the untold journey of Art TerKeurst—exploring his career, family life, and the pivotal moments that shaped his path.

DetailsInformation
Full NameArthur “Art” TerKeurst
Age57 (as of 2023)
BirthdateFebruary 1966
BirthplaceVestavia Hills, Alabama, United States
NationalityAmerican
EthnicityCaucasian
EducationWest Morris Mendham High School, Winthrop University
DegreeBusiness Administration (speculated, not publicly confirmed)
CareerOwner and operator of Chick-fil-A Arboretum FSR
Years Active1991–present
Business AchievementsSuccessfully built and sustained a thriving Chick-fil-A franchise for over three decades
Known ForEntrepreneurial success, community service, and public marital challenges
Relationship StatusDivorced (formerly married to Lysa TerKeurst)
Marriage Duration29 years (1993–2021)
DivorceDecember 2021
ReconciliationBriefly reconciled and renewed vows in 2018 before final separation
Ex-SpouseLysa TerKeurst, author and president of Proverbs 31 Ministries
ChildrenFive children: Hope, Ashley, Brooke (biological daughters), Jackson, and Mark (adopted sons)
GrandchildrenRyser (Ashley’s son)
Religious BackgroundChristian
HobbiesBusiness mentorship, community service, and family activities
Estimated Net Worth$3 million–$5 million
Public ControversiesDivorce citing infidelity and financial misconduct

Early Life and Background

Born in February 1966 in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, Art TerKeurst grew up in a nurturing environment that emphasized family values and resilience. His Southern roots played a significant role in shaping his outlook on life and his dedication to both family and community. After completing his education at West Morris Mendham High School, Art pursued higher education at Winthrop University in South Carolina. These formative years served as a foundation for his future entrepreneurial ventures and personal growth.

Career Highlights

Art TerKeurst’s professional journey is synonymous with his association with Chick-fil-A, one of the most respected names in the fast-food industry. Since December 1991, Art has been the owner and operator of the Chick-fil-A Arboretum FSR in Charlotte, North Carolina. Under his leadership, the franchise has not only thrived in terms of business but also emerged as a significant contributor to the local community.

Art’s management style is characterized by his commitment to fostering a positive work environment and delivering exceptional customer service. His entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen have made his Chick-fil-A franchise a cornerstone in the area, providing employment opportunities and engaging in various charitable activities.

Marriage and Relationship with Lysa TerKeurst

Art’s relationship with Lysa TerKeurst began in a Bible study group, a setting that laid the foundation for a partnership rooted in faith and mutual understanding. The couple tied the knot in 1993, embarking on a journey that spanned nearly three decades. Their marriage was marked by moments of joy, resilience, and challenges.

The couple faced their share of trials, including Lysa’s battle with breast cancer and Art’s admitted infidelity. Despite renewing their vows in 2018 in a bid to restore their relationship, the marriage ultimately ended in December 2021. The divorce was publicly announced by Lysa in early 2022, citing Art’s extramarital affair and financial misconduct as the reasons behind the separation.

Lysa TerKeurst: A Brief Insight

Lysa TerKeurst, a celebrated author and speaker, is the president of Proverbs 31 Ministries, a platform dedicated to empowering women through faith. Her books, including bestsellers like “Uninvited” and “Forgiving What You Can’t Forget”, explore themes of forgiveness, rejection, and resilience. Lysa’s candid storytelling and relatable experiences have resonated with a global audience, solidifying her position as a leading voice in Christian literature.

Art TerKeurst’s Family Life

Art and Lysa share five children, each of whom has carved their unique path in life:

  1. Hope TerKeurst Houser: A fashion blogger and lifestyle influencer, Hope shares insights on style, home decor, and family life. She is married to Michael Houser.
  2. Ashley TerKeurst Hodges: Known for her candid blogs on emotional and spiritual growth, Ashley is a mother to Ryser, her son from a previous marriage.
  3. Brooke TerKeurst: A skilled hair and makeup artist, Brooke has gained recognition for her creative talents in the beauty industry.
  4. Jackson TerKeurst: One of Art and Lysa’s adopted sons, Jackson maintains a low profile, preferring to keep his personal life private.
  5. Mark TerKeurst (T. Markus): Another adopted son, Mark shares an artistic inclination, exploring his passion for music.

Challenges and Controversies

Art’s life has not been without its share of controversies. The most significant among them is his divorce from Lysa, which brought allegations of infidelity and financial misconduct into the public eye. Lysa revealed that Art had spent significant sums of money on another woman he met on a dating site. This period was marked by intense scrutiny, impacting both Art’s personal and family life.

Despite these challenges, Art has worked to maintain his professional responsibilities and community engagements, focusing on his role as a business leader.

Legacy and Influence

Art TerKeurst’s legacy is a blend of entrepreneurial success and resilience in the face of adversity. His contributions to the local community through his Chick-fil-A franchise reflect his dedication to creating a positive impact. While his personal life has faced public challenges, Art’s story is a testament to the human capacity for growth and adaptation.

Net Worth and Lifestyle

Art’s success as a franchise owner has significantly contributed to his estimated net worth, which ranges between $3 million and $5 million. Despite the personal trials he has faced, Art continues to lead a lifestyle that reflects his professional achievements and commitment to family values.

Conclusion

Art TerKeurst’s journey is a blend of professional triumphs and personal challenges. From his roots in Alabama to his role as a business leader and family man, his story encapsulates resilience and growth. Despite the controversies that have marked his personal life, Art’s dedication to his family and community remains a cornerstone of his legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Art TerKeurst?

Art TerKeurst is an American entrepreneur and former husband of author Lysa TerKeurst. He is best known for owning and operating a Chick-fil-A franchise in Charlotte, North Carolina.

What is Art TerKeurst’s professional background?

Art has been involved with Chick-fil-A since 1991, managing the Arboretum FSR location in Charlotte. He is recognized for his business acumen and community contributions.

How long were Art and Lysa TerKeurst married?

Art and Lysa were married for 29 years, from 1993 until their divorce in December 2021.

What led to Art and Lysa TerKeurst’s divorce?

The divorce was attributed to Art’s involvement in an extramarital affair and financial misconduct, as publicly shared by Lysa.

How many children does Art TerKeurst have?

Art has five children with Lysa—three daughters (Hope, Ashley, Brooke) and two adopted sons (Jackson, Mark).

What is Art TerKeurst’s estimated net worth?

Art’s net worth is estimated to be between $3 million and $5 million, largely attributed to his success as a Chick-fil-A franchise owner.

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