Terence Richard Monaghan

Terence (Terry) R. Monaghan, 87, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2025, in Lacey, WA.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, to John and Marcella Monaghan, brother to Joan (Walt, decd) Lissner and the late Donald (Cheryl) Monaghan. Terry lived a long and full life built on love, laughter, and hard work. He often described himself as a scrappy Irish boy from the wrong side of the tracks in Flatbush—a spirit he carried with him throughout his life.

In 1960, Terry married Mary Louise, the love of his life. They first met as teenagers and went on to share 65 years, filled with family adventures, moves across the country, cherished accomplishments, and countless treasured memories.

Throughout his career as a professional civil engineer, Terry traveled extensively, often bringing Mary Louise along to share in the journeys to many countries and destinations. After his retirement, the two embraced a lifelong dream by moving to Ireland, where they reconnected with their heritage and spent cherished time with their many relatives.

Terry was a proud father to Kenneth Monaghan (Dana Thompson, decd., 4/26/25), Denise Monaghan O’Connell, and Colleen (John) Merlino. Nothing brought him greater joy than his family. Devoted grandfather to Patrick (Amanda) O’Connell, Daniel Merlino, Caroline Monaghan, Elizabeth O’Connell, Molly Merlino, and Justin Merlino, and a delighted great-grandfather to Brecken and Eira O’Connell. In addition to his children and grandchildren, Terry was a cherished part of the lives of his numerous nieces and nephews, who adored his humor, guidance, and storytelling

His family will always remember him for his unwavering love for Mary Louise, his deep pride in his Irish heritage, and his service as a U.S. Marine. Like a true Irishman, Terry was known for his wit and storytelling—his beloved “Irish craic”—and for the way his face lit up whenever he was surrounded by those he loved.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life at his funeral mass on October 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Lacey, WA, with a reception to follow at St. Martin’s University, where Terry was honored as a Trustee Emeritus. He will be interred at Tahoma National Cemetery on October 8, 2025, at 2:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Memorial Hospital.

Though he is no longer with us, Terry’s love, wisdom, and humor will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.