Description

Terrence O'Callaghan Jones, Ph.D., 75, passed away December 13, 2023, unexpectedly at home in Chicago's East Lakeview neighborhood. 

Beloved father of TJ O'Shae and grandfather ("Grandpa T") of Morgan Fae (Joseph) Bepler and Kael (Brittany) Vos (born Evan A Gross). Adored and adoring great-grandfather of Molly Cynthia Bepler. Terry leaves behind a found family comprised of a core group of friends going back 60 years: Jim Edwards, Carl and Lola Keys, Maryann Casella, Dan Campion, Basia Bazell, and the late Debby Brougham. Terry is also survived by siblings Larry, Gary, Kerry "K.C.", and Janice Jones.

A graduate of Austin High School, Terry studied Computer Science at Truman College and worked at Combined Insurance (now AON Corp) before earning his B.A. in Education and History and his M.A. and Doctorate in Childhood Education from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He taught 6th-8th grade at Trumbull School for over two decades before his forced retirement from Chicago Public Schools in 2012. Being a teacher was the happiest and most fulfilling time of his life. 

A self-taught left-handed guitarist, Terry had many interests and pursuits. He volunteered at Old Town School of Folk Music, was a scuba diver, loved riding his bike, and adored toys of all kinds. As a boy he loved science fiction and all the possibilities it entailed. The "Lord of the Rings" trilogy was one of his favorite reads and Terry was known for rereading them every autumn. He believed we never stopped learning and that the best way to learn, especially children, was through play. He was a generous and gregarious person at his core. Terry strongly believed in community involvement and education, and he abhorred xenophobia and racism on all levels.

A celebration of life is being planned. Arrangements by Inclusive Funeral Care, 773-370-2959 or www.InclusiveFuneralCare.com.