Obituary of Terrence J. Daley

Loving and devoted husband and father

Terrence James Daley, also known as Terry, passed away peacefully at the age of 77 with his family by his side at Vassar Brothers Medical Center on October 25, 2023.  He was born December 24, 1945 to Harold and Annamarie McCrief Daley.  Terry was a beloved husband, a loving and caring father, brother, cousin, neighbor and friend.  Terry attended St. Peter’s Parochial School and Poughkeepsie High School then furthered his education at the Apprentice School Local 137.  He was a successful heavy equipment operator for the local 137 operating engineers, then worked many years for the Wappingers Central School District. 

Terry married the love of his life, Lorraine Daley on June 28, 1969. He was blessed with a beautiful daughter, Janelle Daley Mihan and caring son-in-law Todd Mihan. Terry was an enthusiastic NY Giants fan; he and Lorraine attended games frequently.  They were passionate travelers who cruised to destinations including Europe, London, Iceland, Greenland, Alaska, Hawaii and immersed themselves in Paris. In his younger years Terry was a competitive diver, drove race cars and played the bongos. Terry liked Scottish history books and enjoyed watching the Rangers, Jeopardy and jewelry shows.  He was always ready to shop – his famous question was “Do we need anything at BJs?” and he loved a good cheeseburger with fries. Terry shared his love of gems and minerals with Janelle, and they enjoyed a yearly tradition of attending shows together.  He always found at least one thing to buy her, gifts she will now treasure forever.

It was always in Terry’s nature to help others. He was a true animal lover and often pet-sat for friends and family. Terry was the most down-to-earth person you’d ever meet. He would strike up a conversation with anyone and was always concerned about how others were doing. He loved the quote, “It is what it is.” Most days you could find him tinkering around the house or hanging out in his basement watching football.  Terry’s loving wife Lorraine, his beautiful daughter Janelle and her husband Todd were his whole world!  He leaves a hole in their lives that can never be filled.

Terry leaves behind quite a legacy. Everyone who knew him, even for a day, had respect and love for him.  He would help anyone anytime, anywhere.  He was truly the best!  Thank you to all the doctors, nurses, family and friends for your love and support throughout his illness. Terry will be deeply missed. May his soul rest in peace.

Calling Hours will be held from 4 to 8pm on Thursday, Nov. 2nd at Straub Catalano & Halvey Funeral Home, 55 E. Main St. Wappingers Falls, NY 12590, with a Time of Remembrance at 7:30pm.  All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the Daley family requests memorial donations to:

Mid-Hudson Animal Aid, 54 Simmons Lane, Beacon, NY 12508

(https://www.midhudsonanimalaid.org/donate/make-an-online-donation/)

The Foundation for Vassar Brothers Medical Center, P.O. Box 22539, New York, NY 10087-2539

(https://www.nuvancehealth.org/giving/support-your-community-hospital)

Hudson Valley Hospice Foundation, 80 Washington Street, Suite 204, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601

(https://www.hvhospice.org/donate-now/#Donate)