Terrence John Whelan

1946 - 2025

Terrence John Whelan Barstow, CA - Terrence John Whelan, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025, at the age of 79. He was born on August 24, 1946 to Joan H. McCauley and Francis B. Whelan in Fine, New York.

Terrence graduated magna cum laude from Seton Hall University in 1969 as one of the first to graduate in Russian Area Studies. From 1969-1972, he went on to serve in the United States Air Force as a First Lieutenant, Deputy Missile Combat Crew Commander, and received a National Defense Service Medal. He went on to attend Rutgers University School of Law and graduated in 1976.

He moved to Watertown, NY, and from 1980 until retirement, he worked for Legal Services of Central New York, Jefferson County Office, where he rose up to Managing Attorney. It was his life's work to help advance justice and to provide access to legal services for individuals and communities who cannot afford representation. He helped thousands of people through the years. One judge stated "I have never met a person more dedicated to protecting the rights of those in the community who need assistance...he is held in high regard not only as a lawyer, but as a decent human being." He also mentored many attorneys during the years, and inspired his niece to become a lawyer.

In 2024, he moved to Barstow, CA where he lived with his sister and brother-in-law. He was happy and loved the sun and blue skies.

He loved fishing, watching football, technology, philosophy, and Russian studies. He was a devout Catholic.

Terrence will be dearly missed by his family and friends who will remember his humor, kindness, and humanity.

He joins his mother, father and beloved brother (Bernard) in heaven. He leaves behind his sister Patricia, his brother-in-law Bill (Barrett) and his nieces and nephews - Rebecca, Frank, Elizabeth, Sarah and Joan. His great nephew, Jack Terrence, was named after him.

In honor of his military service, Terrence's final resting place will be Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, CA.