Terence Martin Nelligan

Terry, as he was known to friends and family, was born in Manhattan, New York, on June 16, 1936, to Thomas and Carolyn Nelligan. He grew up in New York and spent his summers with his family in Maine. Terry enlisted in the United States Air Force in August 1954. He served in both the Korean War and Vietnam War eras. He was stationed in Cam Rah Bay, Republic of Vietnam, from 1966-1967. He retired as a Senior Master Sergeant from the Air Force in 1980 after 26 years of honorable service. From 1980 to 1998 Terry worked as a marketing manager in the Defense Industry at home and abroad. Over the course of his two careers, Terry visited or lived in 56 countries.

Terry’s life was defined by love and family. Terry was married to Leneve Marie Smith, deceased, with whom he shared five children, from 1956 to 1975. He married Sonya Darba in 1977. He and his beloved Sonya were inseparable for 47 years until his passing. Together they raised three children, including the youngest from his first marriage.

Terry was known for his quick wit, great smile, and gregarious nature. His laughter could fill a room. In his later years, Terry was the unofficial ambassador of his neighborhood, visiting with all he passed as he rode his scooter daily. Terry was also an avid outdoorsman. Throughout his life he cherished fishing with his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He also enjoyed boating and countless hours at sea.

Mourning his passing are his wife, Sonya, sister, Carolanne, sons Michael, Thomas, James, Ryan, and Robert, daughters Kathleen and Kelly, twelve grandchildren, twenty great grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews.

His service will be held on Friday, September 8, 2023, at Addison Village Club, 8150 Stadium Parkway, Melbourne, Florida from 11-3pm. Participation is by RSVP only.