Terry Albert Penberth

August 26, 1940 - August 1, 2022

SOLANA BEACH, CA

Terry Penberth passed away peacefully on August 1st after a brief illness. The oldest of four children, he was born in Coaldale, Pennsylvania. He grew up in Lansford, Pennsylvania, a small coal mining town in the foothills of the beautiful Pocono mountains.

He attended Lansford High School. Inspired by the Dorsey Brothers, who lived a few blocks away, he played trombone and was president of his high school band.

Immediately after graduation Terry enlisted in the US Navy, serving nine years as a sonar technician and traveling the world.

He met his wife Elizabeth (Betsy) Gallant while stationed in Newport, Rhode Island. It was love at first sight for both of them, and they married on May 2, 1964.

Assignment as a sonar instructor at the Anti-Submarine Warfare School on Point Loma brought Terry and Betsy to San Diego where their beautiful daughter Catherine (Katie) was born. They enjoyed a happy family life involving many camping trips in the Sierra Mountains and Borrego desert as well as being at home in Solana Beach with their many pets and great neighbors. A loving and devoted father, Terry taught Katie to be independent - teaching her how to use tools, how to fish, ride horses, and change the oil in her car. When his granddaughter, Erica, was born he had a new focus for his love.

After his service in the Navy, he attended San Diego State University earning a BS in Geology in 1973. His working career was in precision metal manufacturing at Maxwell Labs, Lemke Manufacturing, and Cleaire Advanced Emission Controls.

Most of his retirement activities centered around his home. When he wasn’t working on projects, he could be found sitting on his front porch exchanging greetings with neighbors. He had a dry wit and a great sense of humor. Terry was a man of great integrity and never one to boast. He was honorable, compassionate, generous and selfless. His life was devoted to taking care of his family and helping anyone in need.

Terry is survived by his wife, Betsy; daughter, Katie May, and son-in-law, Greg May, of Encinitas; granddaughter, Erica May, of La Costa; two brothers, Ronnie (Carol) and Dwight (Karen) Penberth, of Lansford, PA; and Molly (Stuart) Penberth of Sacramento; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 26th at 11:00 at St. James Catholic Church, 625 S Nardo Avenue, Solana Beach. A reception will follow at the same location. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Terry’s life.