Terry with his wife Daisy.
Terence J. Moakley passed away on Friday, September 5, 2014 after a short bout with cancer. He was 69.
Terry dedicated his life to expanding disability rights, helping his fellow disabled veterans, and improving access to transportation for wheelchair users. He began working as a board member for VetsFirst’s parent organization United Spinal Association–formerly EPVA –in 1968. He will be greatly missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.
“Since I first got appointed to the board on July 1, 1968, this organization has been one of the most important aspects of my life. Another way I look at it is that I’ve been injured almost 47 years and I’ve been involved in some way with the organization for 46 of those years. EPVA/USA has truly enriched my life,” Terry said in a recent email.
Terry was serving in the United States Marine Corps when he was injured in a diving accident. Most people don’t make the type of impact that Terry made on this world. After his injury, he spent his life making the world accessible for disabled veterans and all people with disabilities. Because of Terry’s advocacy, barriers have been broken, destroyed.
Having a disability doesn’t mean an end to living. Terry lived his life to the fullest. His amazing wife and caregiver, Daisy, brought him joy and fueled his zest for life. We will miss our board member, faithful VetsFirst blogger, and most of all, our friend.
God speed, Terry Moakley.
Funeral Arrangements
Wake –
Wednesday 2-4pm, 7-9pm
Higgins Funeral Home
321 S Main Street, New City NY 10956
Funeral service –
Thursday 10am
St. John’s Episcopal Church
365 Strawtown Rd, New City NY 10956
Burial –
Thursday approx. 11:15am
Loescher Veterans Cemetary
Brick Church Road, Monsey NY 10952