Terrence Thomas Griffin

On Tuesday, June 22nd, Terrence Thomas Griffin was called home to fly with the angels at the age of 78. He was preceded in death by his parents Lorene Griffin, Francis Griffin Sr. and his brother Dr. Francis Griffin. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Carole Blaettler Griffin, daughters Christine (Max) Griffin-Janisch, Michelle Montoya, his four adored grandchildren, Drew, Abigail, Alex and M.J., sister June (Mike) Walsh, brother Jim (Barbara) Griffin, sister-in laws Anne Griffin and Barbara Siep, and many nieces and nephews. The love and adoration between Terry and his family was fierce and bold. Even in death this adoring love will continue.

Terry was born in San Mateo, California on November 6th, 1942 and resided there for his earlier years where he enjoyed baseball, football and riding his bike to the park where he was coined “The Park Bum”. He so enjoyed his educational journey at St. Matthew's Catholic School and Serra High School in San Mateo where the teaching by the Jesuits would mold his lifelong commitment of Faith, Family, and Friends. This was the motto Terry lived by each and every blessed day of his life. He continued his education at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and later at The University of San Francisco.

After graduation from USF, Terry began his professional career in 1967 at Andrew Hill High School in San Jose. After teaching in Social Science for several years, he became a Guidance Counselor and later served as Head High School Counselor. During his 37 year tenure he educated, guided and mentored thousands and thousands of young hearts and minds. He also enjoyed coaching Hill’s football and baseball teams. His leadership was instrumental in the creation and support of programs such as The Medical Magnet, JROTC, ROP, Adult Education, and The Graduation Academy to name just a few. After his retirement in 2004, he continued his commitment to the Adult Education Program for a decade. Students, faculty and staff remember him as a man of grace, tolerance, leadership, compassion, guidance, and integrity. He was the patriarch of The Andrew Hill Falcon Family for decades and became fondly known as “Father Griffin”.

Terry lived a life of philanthropy. Among his favorites was his leadership in The Sue Alves Golf Tournament Fundraiser, which raised thousands of dollars in scholarship money for students within The Nursing Academy at Hill. Another was his commitment to the Catholic Church, serving as Eurchristic Minister, teaching CCD, and participating in the raising of money for Church needs.

This fighting Irishman and avid 49er fan will be remembered as a pillar of the community, a man of great Faith, an honest and dear friend to many, a loving and supportive husband, father and grandfather, and an advocate for what is right, just, and fair. His legacy of “Faith, Family, and Friends” will continue for generations and his laughter will live in our hearts for eternity.

A Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, August 3rd at 12:00 at St Francis of Assisi, 5111 San Felipe Rd. in San Jose. A Celebration of Life will be announced at the service.