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Terry Jackson Obituary
Jackson lived to be 57 -- about 40 years longer than doctors predicted after he contracted polio at 13 months old and spent a good part of childhood in a full body cast.
The disease left him with one leg the circumference of a broomstick and a contorted back ''that twists like 40 miles of mountain road,'' as Jackson described it. Doctors warned his parents that his life would be short and sedentary.
Instead, it was a big-screen adventure streaked with tabloid thrills. Jackson raced vintage cars at 120 mph, hobnobbed with gangsters, drove 500 miles along a meandering dirt trail through the Alaskan tundra to dip his fingers into the Arctic Ocean, wrote six books and helped win two Pulitzer Prizes.
And every step of the way he sneered at doctors and sob-sister counselors who said he couldn't. ''There was no surer way to tick him off than to suggest that he make allowances for his condition -- at any point over the years and especially as the cancer advanced,'' said former Herald writer Martin Merzer.
Jackson's journalism career, which started 39 years ago with a summer job as a copyboy at the old Fort Lauderdale News, contained two tours at The Herald (which hired him, he liked to say, to fill its ``crutch quota''), and ended with him directing day-to-day operations of The Herald's Features department, was enough to fill two or three résumés.
It included newspaper jobs in St. Petersburg; Naples; Jacksonville; Austin, Tex., and Sacramento, Calif. At the Sacramento Bee, he directed a 1992 series on environmental destruction in the Sierra Nevada mountains that won a Pulitzer for public service; in Miami, during a five-year stint as TV critic, he shared in the Pulitzer awarded to the Herald staff for coverage of the seizure of Elián González.
But it was what he did outside newsrooms that was the stuff of Jacksonian legend. His passion for cars and casinos triggered one perilous caper after another. Covering the 1977 World Series of Poker, he interviewed one gambler who subsequently staked him to a share of a bar. The place was sufficiently adventurous that Jackson took to carrying a gun. Another interview landed him in court as a witness when the gambler was accused of murdering a federal judge.
Jackson's escapades with cars -- rooted, no doubt, in the years he spent in the body cast -- were only marginally less madcap. ''When he was just a baby in that cast, he taught himself to roll over and pull himself along the floor with his hands,'' remembered Cathie Powell, Jackson's sister. ``He always wanted to be mobile.''
In calmer moments, that translated to writing: Jackson authored six books on cars. In wilder ones, he took a 1965 Mustang GT 350 on the vintage racing circuit, running -- and often winning -- Mittyesque duels with other don't-quit-your-day-job drivers on famous tracks like Daytona, Sebring and Watkins Glen. And writing car columns in Sacramento and Miami, he persuaded manufacturers to lend him test models for ever-more-improbable odysseys, topped by his 1996 trek to the Arctic on a narrow wilderness road through two mountain ranges.
''Everybody warned us to take a spare windshield because the road was so rough,'' said Herald editor Marjie Lambert, Jackson's wife of 28 years. ''When we told Ford we wanted an extra windshield, they just kind of looked at us.'' But the trip ended with Jackson, Lambert and the windshield all intact.
Jackson's contempt for all things safe and sane extended into practically every corner of his life, especially eating. He once wrote a lascivious ode to the Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese (''and a side order of Lipitor!'') for The Herald. His newsroom colleagues saluted him Wednesday with an afternoon repast of Oreos and Coca-Cola -- or, as Jackson referred to it, the Breakfast of Champions.
Jackson is survived by his wife; sister Powell of Reisterstown, Md., and brother Larry Rank of Phoenix. A memorial service is being planned.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Terry Jackson
Venice, October 2004
March 1, 2009
John Cox
February 5, 2009
I could fill this page with how I feel about Terry as an editor and mentor and the impact he had on me as a writer, but I'd rather remember his friendship.
I'd do almost anything to pull up a chair next to him at another poker table or listen to another car story filled with jargon that I didn't understand but was still riveted by.
It was easy to wake up every morning and go to work knowing that at least 30 minutes of my day would be spent sitting next to him, listening to a tale told by an adventurer extraordinaire.
I miss you, Terry. I'll always be inspired, and I'll never forget you.
George Baker
January 22, 2009
Terry was an immensely talented editor who was so good at so many things. On a big, breaking story he was skilled at marshalling resources, deploying reporters and developing creative ways to tell a familiar story. He was just as good at editing copy, whether it was by a veteran reporter or a rookie. He never substituted his style for the reporter, but he made things better.
Terry was a positive force in newsrooms because he believed in what he did and he wanted to put out the best newspaper he could each day. And when we would confront a thorny personnel or coverage issue Terry would finally say, “Don’t worry about it. I’ll take care of it.” Then he would flash that big, broad grin (and maybe wink) and I knew things would turn out just fine.
We will all miss you Terry.
jack sirard
January 18, 2009
I had 38 years in the biz and the best six weeks were when Terry made a brief stop in our department...the stories, the stories...a great friend to all who knew him
Karen Baker
January 15, 2009
Through the years, I could always count on Terry to give me honest and informed answers to any question I asked. He was my gold standard. From "Is this story worthy of Page 1?" to "How do we get the attention of Fix-Or-Repair-Daily car company?" to "Should I consider buying a Mazda Miata?" (of course he said "Yes"--and I did!) to "What new TV shows are worth watching this season?", Terry always had a good answer--and an opinion! I'll miss you, Terry. Much love to Marjie...
Marcello Serrato
January 15, 2009
Hello Marjie,
On behalf of the Prestige Auto Organization, I want to extend our deepest condolences to you and your family.
I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to work together with Terry and provide him with our services for well over 20 years, he was always a gentleman and treated us with much respect.
He was without any doubt the pioneer of the Journalist in the Southeast, he definitely made a enormous impact in the automotive sector.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
James Kukar
January 14, 2009
Marjie,
I was in awe of Terry's courage, determination and ability.
Jim Anderson
January 12, 2009
Terry -
Wise beyond words, a calming presence, a man who could and did see and then pursued all horizons -- and a wonderfully mischievous sense of humor. That twinkle in your eye will be with us always. Godspeed -- with the emphasis on speed.
Margie, all love your way.
Bill Townsend
January 12, 2009
I was inspired just being around my crusty little buddy.
In Mexico when a group of us ran the Panamericana vintage road race one year, at the conclusion of the race, in San Felipe, we were confronted with a massive flight of Mayan steps leading up to the hotel bar after the race. One of us said, "Jackson, you'll miss the first four beers if you try to walk up those steps so we're going to carry you no matter what you say." "The hell you are", said he. "I'll miss half-a-beer ... maybe ... and I'll pull ahead of you before the end of the first lap". "Fine, see you later" said we. It took him 15 minutes or so but he navigated every step, alone, chuckling all the way. No one helped him, or even checked on him, except to honor his call for a mid-course Corona relayed to us by a fellow racer who passed him on the steps. Finally, to the irreverent applause of his pals and a round of welcoming toasts, he indeed quickly made-up for lost time in the bar ... the conquest and joy of the moment being representative of the way he lived his entire life. God, that smile...
Also inspirational to me was his special relationship with Margie. Anyone who spent time with them will know exactly what I mean so there's no need to elaborate here.
I doubt I'll meet another like Jackson, and I'll be poorer for it.
Rest in peace, my friend, you got the checkered flag.
Roger Capettini
January 12, 2009
I guess I could say Terry had me at "hello." He was at AMI's auto World and I was with one of the tabloids just before the Anthrax attack forced us all out of he building.
I had noticed Terry had one of the new Thunderbirds to test so I introduced myself and asked him what he thought of it. He tossed me the keys across his desk. "Take it for a ride but have it back before the end of the day." Whatta guy.
A few years later as an editor at Bankrate.com I was asked to find an auto writer and get a weekly column going. What a breeze -- just called Terry who put it together and we had it online in a week.
He became an instant hit on Bankrate, generating incredible numbers of page views and reader response every time his column appeared.
He was an editor's dream -- a writer who could be counted on for crisp, clean, informative and witty copy, always on time. And he became a friend ... one I will miss very much.
Arnold Markowitz
January 11, 2009
If Terry edited your copy, and you paid attention, you became a better writer.
If you knew his personal story he made it awfully hard to feel sorry for yourself, or even for him, and you became a better person.
If you talked with Terry about almost anything, on or off the job, you finished that conversation with more insight than when you began it.
The first time Terry edited a story of mine, he respectfully acknowledged my preference for kibitzing the job and refused to allow it. "We'll go over it when I'm done, and if you have a problem with anything we'll deal with it then," he said.
In a lenient mood, I agreed. I wasn't disappointed. From then on, if my own editor was backlogged I tried to get Terry. I wish he had been available more often.
I knew how important cars were to Terry, and he knew how unimportant they were to me. We respected each other anyhow.
Terry, I'm still driving the '96 pickup that I chose mostly on the basis of your advice. If I ever have to replace it, I'll know what to do.
'witz
Jennifer Frenkil
January 10, 2009
Terry was a strong man that stomped ridicule to the side and went from there. Admireable. He was, very obviously successful. In death he will be greatly missed by his family and friends. May you rest peacefully, Terrry!!
Nancy Dahlberg
January 10, 2009
Terry was a good friend, teacher and leader. He left me and the whole Herald newsroom many, many gifts -- the greatest being inspiration. Terry's life was truly that.
Kathryn Sosbe
January 10, 2009
I knew Terry briefly, but those few times left a lasting impression. I remember laughing throughout dinner with Terry and Marjie. He could talk about any subject with ease and make anyone feel at home. I remember him as a man who loved everything and one who understood so much more than most people ever will. My love to Marjie.
Randy Cook
January 9, 2009
It was an honor and pleasure to share my vintage racing experiences with Terry. We had, along with Marjie, great conversations about cars, people, politics and more. Terry's Mustang was my favorite car and his gentleman approach to racing was right on. A man of remarkable achievements, he will be missed by many. Luckily, I have a few photos and one of his books to help keep his memory alive.
Amy Alexander
January 9, 2009
Terry and Marjie saved the day when they arrived at the Fresno Bee in the early '90s.
In short order, I learned a couple of important things from them:
-- Journalism matters but it should not consume your life: having a rich life outside of the newsroom is necessary for your spirit, and because it informs your work.
-- Be fearless, concise, and good-humored while news-gathering, and while managing the in-house politics: High Drama is not required to consistently perform at optimum level.
Those are the big take-aways. But Terry and Marjie's example, as well as their genuine confidence in me as a journalist, truly set me on a successful career path. The details, of course, provide the most rich depiction of what it was like to work with and for Terry and Marjie, such as:
-- Terry seeking me out within his first few hours as City Editor at The (underperforming) Bee, and introducing himself by telling me that he intended to be an advocate, as long as I was willing to work hard and FOCUS.
-- Terry ambling over to my desk after receiving a half-joking email from me saying I'd like to go to LA to cover the riots that were likely to break out after some cops were acquitted of beating Rodney King, and saying, "How soon can you pack?"
-- Marjie inviting me to write for a small enterprise reporting unit that she helped get online at The Fresno Bee, then advising me -- with sharp expertise, casual determination, and quiet grace -- as I grappled with the first story.
-- Marjie on the ground with me, and a Bee photographer in LA during the tumultuous five days of the King riots: Calm, resourceful, confident, brave and, even in the midst of epic chaos, shockingly organized.
-- Terry handing over the keys to an obscenely hot Porsche 968 -- and letting me take it out on Highway 99 without him.
-- Marjie and Terry welcoming me into their home, in California and in South Florida, where great food, conversation and fellowship were in abundance.
Terry's passing is sad but it is does diminish his fine, fine spirit. That lives on with Marjie, and with those of us who learned so much about life from him.
John Cramer
January 9, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of Terry's death. We worked together only briefly at The Fresno Bee, but I admired his honesty, intellect and straight-forwardness.
Jan Pelser
January 9, 2009
Chuck and I feel honored to be one of the first that knew you as a married couple, Terry was an amazing man and it was our honor to know him and share a part of your lives. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.
Love Jan
Carol Reynolds-Srot
January 9, 2009
Marjie, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Terry was a great guy who lived life to the fullest. His absence will be a big loss for everyone. Bathe yourself in your warm memories of him...you two will meet again.
Kevin Rank
January 9, 2009
It's a cliche, and I'm sure he would wave it off, but my uncle Terry was truly larger than life. He was the big brother I never had and was a huge influence on me in many ways.
He was more than generous to me; in recent years he arranged not one, but two trips to Yurrup for me to review new cars and write about them for Auto World. He got a story for the magazine, and I got two trips-of-a-lifetime in return.
Terry also made it possible for me to take the 3 day racing course at Sebring at the Skip Barber school. Something again I will never forget and am fortunate to have done.
But then again I was fortunate to have Terry as a part of my life. I thought he would always be there, and I honesty thought he'd get over the pneumonia and get back on his cancer treatment and ultimately the cancer would be gone. Because that was Terry - a fighter, and never one to let anything stand in his way. Why should cancer be any different?
Sadly, I was wrong. Terry died far too young. But as others here have said, during his lifetime he lived an incredible life and did things most people only dream of. And he got to get paid for what he loved to do most. That was a pretty good gig.
I will miss him more than I can ever express.
-Kevin
Bill Hirschman
January 9, 2009
It's ironic that we journalists find our eloquence vanishes when trying to express the profound loss and sympathy we feel in condolences. There is no way to communicate to strangers who Terry was -- but Glenn's obit came as close as anyone could. Forthright, incisive, funny -- the list of adjectives would drive a copyeditor like him crazy. Marjie, thank you for sharing him with us. We are the richer for knowing him. I remember at the 2007 Christmas party how he told me that a mutual friend fighting cancer had to keep an upbeat attitude, never give up and push through it. Coming from him, it was not an empty homily but life-tested advice that took your breath away.
Morriss and Chris Holliday
January 9, 2009
Marjie and family -- What an honor and pleasure to have crossed paths with Terry and share our love of cars and the thrill of competition. We always looked forward to seeing him and Marjie and being updated on their new travel adventures. He was an inspiration and truly a caring and
remarkable human being.
Kathleen Williams
January 8, 2009
Terry, you were one of a kind. Your easy laugh, your stories, and, oh, those cars. Your love of life (gusto!) was apparent to anyone after 5 minutes. Marjie, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
JoLene Krawczak
January 8, 2009
I learned more about news and the joy of the newspaper business working for Terry at the Fresno Bee than any other single experience in my career.
I will always marvel how he could craft almost anything into a great story and had so much fun doing it.
As he always said about others: "He was a piece of work" (except I mean it in the best sense.)
My love and condolences to Marjie.
Kathie Powell
January 8, 2009
As Terry’s sister, I wish I could share all the good times we had together. Terry and Marjie always made sure that I had a good time. I had many wonderful years of visiting them. He worked in many states, therefore I had the opportunity to live through Terry’s eyes and experience his world. I doubt that I could have been so fortunate, had it not been for my dear brother and his desire to make me happy. In his last days he tried to comfort me! He said,” Kathie, it is what it is”. I will always remember the ride we took up my street, in his new vette, going approx 100 miles and hour with our hair blowing in the breeze. What a ride!
My grief is very deep. because he was not only my brother , he was my friend, mentor, and my hero. he will always be with me in spirit.
Kathie
Anne-Marie Davidson
January 8, 2009
I am so glad that Terry visited Minnesota years ago when he was writing a Corvette book, maybe 15 years ago. I remember , he also wanted to see the Mall of America while here. As Marjie's childhood friend from California, living in MN, I seldom got to see her. Terry was so welcoming and hospitable when we came down to Florida, about 9-10 years ago. We felt so at home. I am honored to have known him, and so glad for all the joy he has given to my dear friend, Marjie. I am so glad you got your car and accomplished your goal of visiting all the states as well. You touched so many, you are a wonderful inspiration. My prayers are with your family.
Jodi Farrell
January 8, 2009
I really enjoyed Terry's pragmatic, no BS attitude. He didn't let anything stop him, but did it with a "so what?" humbleness. I'll think of him every time I step on the accelerator.
David Ovalle
January 8, 2009
Terry was an amazing co-worker. When I needed help in choosing a new car, just a few months ago, he patiently withstood all my pestering to give me his best choices. Most were out of my price range but in the end, he lauded my choice (a 2008 black Nissan Altima) -- and his advice helped me to lower my loan rate. His passion for cars was unmmatched. My favorite part of coming into work in the morning was seeing what amazing auto Terry was driving that week. You'll be missed, my friend.
Janet Vitt
January 8, 2009
The world is poorer -- newsrooms in particular -- without colorful characters like Terry populating them. He is missed.
Brandon Garcia
January 8, 2009
I will always remember Terry as a great friend and neighbor. He was always in great spirits and was one of the nicest guys i ever knew. He always offered to give me a ride in one of his cars. I just wish i had the chance to go have a nice ride and talk with him. Terry will always be in our hearts and our prayers.
Carlos Garcia
January 8, 2009
We will remember Terry as a gentlemen and great neighbor. We were blessed to have him as a friend and neighbor. We will miss our driveway conversations tremendously. Marjie our hearts go out to you during this difficult time. We will keep you in our prayers.
Bob Walter
January 8, 2009
Terry (and Marjie, for that matter) was a friend and colleague during (much) better days at The Sacramento Bee.
He knew no shades of grey. Cars, food, wine and people were either good or useless. But if he was your friend, you could trust Terry to have your back.
It's a sad day, but Terry might approve of a William Wallace quote from Braveheart:
All men die. Not all men live.
Terry lived.
Here's to you, pards. Marjie, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bob and Cyndi Walter
Diane Lade
January 8, 2009
Terry was the real deal: Fully there in the moment, living life to the fullest, uniquely himself. Who else would convince his wife that a fabulous trip would be to buy a Mazda Miata on eBay, a car without enough room for a suitcase -- and then drive it straight back from New Orleans to Miami?
Our thoughts are with Marjie, his family and his many, many friends. The world is a grayer place without him.
Glenda Wolin
January 8, 2009
Only Terry could pull such a scam as getting paid for driving cars and watching TV -- and win admiration for it. We worked together at the Herald, and I loved hearing his tales of adventure. He was truly one of a kind. Anyone who knew Terry should not be ashamed to laugh when recalling him. He'd appreciate that.
Maria C. Garcia
January 8, 2009
Even now as we mourn your loss, we can't help but break into laughter as we recall your character, your comebacks, your gift for not taking anything too seriously or letting anything get you down. Knowing and working with you was an absolute joy. Keep watching over us and keep us laughing, Terry. And keep a special watch over Marjie.
Richard Darby
January 8, 2009
During Terry's stint as an ast.metro editor at The Fresno Bee, I recall what was for sure his happiest moment there. In the Co. cafe, surrounded by bright young women, one of the fairest called him "Terrible Terry" after one of his many off color stories. I have never witnessed such & expression of sheer boyish delight before or since on a mans face..
Bob Krawczak
January 8, 2009
Terry was a friend. I do not remember him as being either short or physically twisted. Rather, as us driving furiously up Hwy 99 in Fresno, Cal. in a new convertible two seat Mercedes with Terry nudging me to "open it up" as we approached 100mph. An excellent review on that car Terry...Adios Amigo! Marjie, JoLene and I truly grieve the loss of your man Terry...Bob Krawczak, Ph.D.
Keith Morse
January 8, 2009
In a business where there are fewer and fewer "characters," Terry was one -- big time. I've heard a few of Terry's other escapades and never knew whether to believe them or not. But I usually erred on the side of believing them. My condolences to Marjie. They contributed a lot during their time at the Fresno Bee when our paths crossed.
Ginny Amato
January 8, 2009
As a Registrar for racing in Florida Region of Sports Car Club of America I met hundreds of drivers (Weekend Warriors). Many of them gave me good memories but Terry stood out as one of the best. He always approached the desk with a smile and a quip. Watching him struggle to walk and then seeing him drive the doors off his race car was an inspiration and the finest example of what bravery and determination will do. God speed the checker is out Terry.
Don Ragland
January 8, 2009
Although small in stature, Terry was a larger-than-life presence in a newsroom splashed with characters. He was simply a joy to be around and made everyone he touched feel better. So sorry to hear of his passing. God bless.
Matt Nauman
January 8, 2009
A good man. A great driving partner. I hadn't seen Terry for a few years, and hadn't driven with him in more, but the obit captured him perfectly, and the stories from friends, family and fans made me smile.
Terry Jackson - 2003
John Rollins
January 8, 2009
Everyone that met Terry walked away a better person for it. During my "reign" as the Florida Region Vintage Race Coordinator I had the pleasure of competing and socializing with Terry on many occasions and each time I learned something new about his history and/or character. He rarely mentioned his handicap, though it was considerable enough to keep him from doing some of the things he might have liked, rather, he focused on all the joy he experience in life. In doing so, he became a role model for me and many others. For his many contributions in participation and support of our Vintage Racing Program, Terry was awarded the SCCA Florida Region "Spirit of Vintage Competition" trophy in 2003. He will be sorely missed by the Vintage Racing community. Our hearts go out to Marjie in this difficult time - we will keep her in our thoughts and prayers.
John Taylor
January 8, 2009
Worked with Terry at the Fresno Bee. Consummate pro. Only editor who ever apologized to me for not taking my advice when things went sideways. Thrilled my then-young son with ride in a tricked-out car. Prayers to Marjie.
Elaine Corn
January 8, 2009
Terry and I held down a filthy copy desk in Austin during a time he was driving a Lincoln that looked like a spat, and was also running a bar. He became my friend so he would know which boyfriends to torment me about for the next 30 years. The first thing my husband said upon meeting Terry in 1987 was: He's smart. Terry ate well with us -- more potstickers than cookies. David and I are saddned by your leaving, Terry. Marjie, what a ride. Garvin, a fine piece of writing [today's obit] that I'm guessing is completely from memory. We'll miss you, our friend, debater, doubter and crazy man born to journalism.
Jim Murphy
January 8, 2009
Terry, when I started at 1HP as a part-timer on the copy desk I was intimidated by so much, but you were one of the first people who made me feel welcome and at ease. You were a natural beacon and your warmth and grace will be missed.
Nuri Vallbona
January 8, 2009
Every time that I see a Corvette, I think of Terry and it makes me smile. Coke Zero is a godsend. I'll miss you Terry!
Sarah and Jim Griffin
January 8, 2009
Las Vegas for your 50th -- Unforgettable! Love to Marjie.
Gene Williams
January 8, 2009
Near the end of his life Terry wondered why so many people were making such a fuss over him. "I'm nothing special," he said.
It's the only time I've known him to be absolutely, unequivocally wrong. He was special … a special man, a special journalist and a very special friend.
When we first met, he handled what could have been a tense professional situation between us with far more grace and understanding than I would have been able to muster. From that time on, I knew just what kind of man he was – extraordinary, with a singular brand of humor and a talent as big as his personality.
So, let us fawn over you a little now, Terry, and give thanks for having known you … for your guidance, your insight, your friendship.
And thank you Marjie for loving him and sharing him with us.
Goodbye my friend. You live on in my heart – all our hearts – now and forever.
Larry Rank
January 8, 2009
Dear Terry: You are the best brother that anyone could ask for. I love you with all my heart. We had some great times together. We will meet again. All my love. Your brother, Larry.
Deborah Blum
January 8, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of Terry's death. He was one of the best and most supportive editors (at The Sacramento Bee) that a science writer could have wished for. Thanks to Terry's love of adventurous science (and especially the space program and astronomy) I visited some of the great American telescopes, got drunk with some of the best astronomers in the country (my fault not Terry's although he would have approved, I think) and chased the space shuttle, for better and for worse, across the country. He never let me down or failed to make me laugh about the challenges of the job. Here's to you, Terry.
Peter Haugen
January 8, 2009
Among his many gifts, he could smell pretentiousness at a thousand paces and deflate it effortlessly. I always enjoyed it back in Sacramento when Terry dropped by the entertainment desk to laugh with us. Deepest sympathy to Marjie.
Brent ONeill
January 8, 2009
Terry we will all miss you at the shop you are a great friend and customer , the trip across country with the Mustang we will never forget, the races we supported you at they where the best, we will miss your stories and all the cool cars you let us drive, thanks for letting us be a part of your life
Walt Wiley
January 8, 2009
Terry -- what a guy!
Tom Davidson
January 8, 2009
There are too many belief-defying stories to recount; here's merely one:
I'm driving along the New Jersey turnpike, way too fast for the weather, in a sports car that's way too nice for the likes of me, looking *up* at the door handles of Accords, for crying out loud.
My wife had been loaned the car so she could write a review for the "Mothers and Autos" boondoggle/column that Terry had bestowed on her. Every mother, of course, *needs* a two-seat ground rocket for those moments when the minivan just doesn't allow for rapid escape, I guess.
As we hurtled past yet another big rig en route to a lovely NYC weekend, Sue sighed: "We really owe Terry big for this one."
Yes, we owe him for that moment, and for so many more.
Peace to Terry; condolences (and fond memories) to Marjie and family.
Jasmine Rangel
January 8, 2009
Terry was always a smiling face in the Herald newsroom. On those Sunday nights when I got to work alongside him, his candor and joking personality made the shift go by easier. He was a pleasure to work with and my condolences go out to his wife Marjie and to his family.
Bob LaMendola
January 8, 2009
The best Marlins game I ever saw was the one we attended with Terry and Marjie. The conversation was so good we missed the game but no one cared. What a great guy.
Ella & Paul Bellia
January 8, 2009
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Winston Townsend
January 8, 2009
Farewell my friend until we meet again.
Winston
Harriet Brackey
January 8, 2009
What a great life! The world needs more adventures like his.
Cherie Henderson
January 8, 2009
A few people stand out long after your paths have parted. Terry was one of those people.
Gina Spadafori
January 8, 2009
Sitting across from Terry at The Sacramento Bee was the best time of my career. He was an amazing man, brilliant and brave, bitterly funny and crusty as all get out.
M, know that I am thinking of you at this sad time, and remembering Terry with admiration.
Mauro Ponce
January 8, 2009
I will miss Terry and his stories and the autos he always parked in front of our building. My deepest sympathies and special prayers for his family.
Anne Bartlett
January 8, 2009
Terry's joyful approach to life's adventures is a model for us all. He was one of the bravest people I've ever known. Marjie, my deepest sympathy.
Marshall Brodie
January 8, 2009
Terry had that rare quality of continually challenging others while being genuinely supportive. Terry had great insight, knew what he wanted, dealt with what was important and didn't want to be bothered with the rest. An inspiration to all, I will always be indebted to Terry.
Candy Sims
January 8, 2009
I will miss Terry and his stories. My deepest sympathies and special prayers for his family.
Richard Pachter
January 8, 2009
Always enjoyed having Terry look over my Sunday 4A promo copy and hearing him chuckle from a corny pun or double entendre. Great guy; versatile journalist. Too soon gone.
Sidonie Sawyer
January 8, 2009
Terry, I will miss your questions on French spelling, the snapping sound of your early morning drinks of Coke, and your all-over good humour at whatever the day would throw at us. Peace and love, Sidonie.
Gina Cardenas
January 8, 2009
Terry was a truly special person to his Herald colleagues. On a daily basis, people from all over the newsroom would come by to chat with Terry, to ask advice (on cars and other matters), or just to get a bit of a pick-me-up. I tried not to eavesdrop, but I must confess I often did, because Terry always had some interesting or funny insight. We'll miss you, Terry.
Our thoughts are with Marjie and all of Terry's loved ones.
Terry Jackson returning from our trip to the Grand Prix of Monaco
Chet Zerlin
January 8, 2009
Terry, being your friend was one of the best experiences of my life. You were an everyday hero to me - overcoming adversity and physical challenges that would have made a lesser man wallow in self-pity - instead you seized every opportunity that life offered you and lived every moment to the fullest. Traveling along with you in your life's journey pushed me to experience so many things that I would never have thought to experience without you. The times we shared at racetracks, the car events that we went to, the dinners and wonderful conversations (and debates) that we shared together and the places that you and I traveled to will always remain highlights in my memory as I struggle to deal with the sadness that is always associated with losing such a good friend. There is a photograph that I took of you during our return trip to our hotel from the Grand Prix of Monaco (which in you usual way you convinced me to do via a "water taxi" - that turned out to be a high speed triple motored semi-racing boat) In it you are perched on the back deck as we traveled at speeds that I would estimate to be in the "high scary range". Behind you is the spray of the boat's wake, the wind pushing you hair back and the coastline of Southern France just visible behind you. You are obviously holding on for dear life, and the look on your face shows clearly that you are loving every minute of the experience. That is the way I will always remember you - rushing forward through life at great speed and pushing life's envelope every day while cherishing every minute of the experience. Thank you Terry for your friendship and camaraderie. I miss you more than words can express.
Michael Welch
January 8, 2009
Dear Ms. Lambert:
My thoughts and prayers go out to you. Many great memories of Terrry's writings and adventures came to mind when I read of Terry's passing. May the many fond memories of your time with Terry flood your mind to help ease the loss.
Sincerely,
Michael
Rafael Sangiovanni
January 8, 2009
I knew Terry briefly from my time at The Herald, although I did not know his story until now. I'm grateful to have been in the presence of such a great spirit. He lived an inspirational and fulfilling life, and he will be missed.
I send my best wishes and prayers to Terry's family.
Dixie & Bob Foote
January 8, 2009
Oh, Terry....we wined and dined, saw the Rolling Stones in Oakland, and bet on the ponies at CalExpo....good times with a guy who exemplified "living large". It ended too soon. We're so sorry, Marjie.
Luca Papini
January 7, 2009
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
Eileen Spiegler
January 7, 2009
When Terry edited my story and liked it, his praise was simple and direct: "Good job." They seemed the two most beautiful words in the English language. We were lucky to have him.
Pat Andrews
January 7, 2009
Terry, I figure you're somewhere, looking down, watching us, amused as we fumble around in verbosity, burying the lede, writing stuff you would edit down to a few succinct sentences. I loved your spirit. I loved the fact that you were truly fearless, never once blinking at challenges, professionally or physically - as long as I've known you. Thanks for providing guidance in my professional life. I will miss our talks when you would take your time and arrive early at the CND before one of our myriad meetings started, just so we could share a coupla conspiratorial winks. So long, my friend. God bless you, Marjie...
Desonta Holder
January 7, 2009
Terry, I remember when you read the first few graphs of one of my stories and then turned around and asked me what was the point. I guess that was your way of saying I should get rid of all the junk at the top. You were a great editor. You will be missed. (In lieu of Oreos and Coke, I'm having a glass of red wine for the antioxidants.)
Roman Garcia
January 7, 2009
God Bless Terry and his family in this time of their loss. Terry will be missed, he was a great colleague in the little time that I worked outside of sports. God Bless his soul.
Elissa
January 7, 2009
Terry was one of the people I looked for when I had an assignment, writing or editing, that was so outlandish no one else would take it on. I hired him to be TV editor. I hired him back after he left the Herald. And I'd hire him again today. Helluva guy. Afterlife, look out!
Amit Bhuta
January 7, 2009
Thanks so much for all your incredible stories. You will truly be missed.
Barry Spyker
January 7, 2009
Terry, you introduced me to the motor-press world. Thank you for that. We will miss you. My best to Margie and family.
michelle
January 7, 2009
Terry was an inspiration as is my Dad who also conquered polio.
Albert Batista
January 7, 2009
I enjoyed your articles, God Bless You!
Omar Gonzalez
January 7, 2009
Always enjoyed his entries in Wheels and Waves back in the day. God bless him and his family.
Adrian Ruhi
January 7, 2009
Although I only knew Terry for a few months, he left a lasting impression. From his passionate car advice, to his requests for me to change from CNN to NASCAR, every time I saw his yellow Corvette parked outside work, I knew we were in for a crazy ride.
Best of wishes to Marjie, Glenn, and the rest of Terry's family and friends.
Terry would recognize this one.
David Blasco
January 7, 2009
I am saddened. Terry was a gentleman in a profession that often (sometimes rightly) promotes boors. He was exceptional, something I knew from talking to him on the phone, years before I learned he had physical challenges. His was a voice you could always trust, on the phone, or in print.
Bonnie Jeyam
January 7, 2009
A life lived! We'll miss you.
c c
January 7, 2009
God Bless
Shelley Acoca
January 7, 2009
Terry's spirit, wit and intelligence will be missed. He was an incredible colleague and friend.
Marjie, you're in my thoughts and prayers.
Cindy and Al Seip/Diaz & family
January 7, 2009
We already miss our talented and favorite Herald family member! Terry was a one in a million. Our sympathy to Margie and his family.
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