- Direct Cremation of the Seacoast - https://www.directcremationseacoast.com -

Teruko “Terry” Gordon

Posted By Direct Cremation of the Seacoast On January 12, 2023 @ 4:16 pm In | 35 Comments

Exeter, NH – Teruko “Terry” Gordon lived a full and meaningful life by any measure. Born in 1929 in Osaka, she survived World War II Japan as a young girl. A decade later, she met and married James Gordon, a USAF airman and emigrated to the United States in 1956.

Together they raised two children, daughter Irene and son Jim, first in Charlestown, MA then in nearby Peabody. She was a devout and founding member of Soka Gakkai International (SGI) New England whose Nichiren Buddhist tenets of love and peace helped shape the core values by which she lived.

Terry Gordon shared her life with us until January 12th completing her journey 22 years after James, her husband of 44 years, completed his. She has said goodbye to her daughter Irene Polchies, grandson Sage Polchies, great-grandchildren Zane & Zia Polchies and their mother Casandra Romero all of Taos, NM as well as her son Jim Gordon, his wife Shelly, and their children Lily & Isaac of Exeter, NH. Others that will miss her include her sister Chiyoko Shida, 102, of Nagasaki Japan, numerous nieces and nephews and their families on both sides of the Atlantic, and her large SGI family.

In lieu of a public service, the family hopes you’ll take a few moments from your busy day and remember a fun moment you had with Terry or contemplate how she may have directly or indirectly affected your life. If you wish to make a donation in her memory, please consider The Dementia Society of America[www.dementiasociety.org]

 


Condolences for the family of “Teruko “Terry” Gordon”

Condolence from Effie Velardo on January 12th, 2023 5:56 pm

Oh so sorry to hear of Terrys passing. She and I always got along well and talked when ever we were together about going to Japan together. I loved her even though I didn’t see her often Effie & Jim

Condolence from Sainah rahardja on January 12th, 2023 6:37 pm

I will miss her smile, miss sharing sushi meals with her, miss driving her to SGI meetings, miss having you around as my dearest friend. Jim & Shelley & Irene, my profound gratitude for including me in this

Condolence from HAROLD SULLIVAN on January 12th, 2023 6:39 pm

One of many “happy times” Very often, we the Sullivan pack would walk from Mead St. to “Big Jim’s” & Terry’s house on Albion Place to stuff us all into his 1957 Ford, 4 door sedan, light blue in color to make the journey to the Mystic Lakes or to Aunt Marion’s or Sissy’s house for a family fun day. Overcrowded, no A/C and sometimes singing along with whatever Elvis song on the radio. With young Jim sitting on the center armrest between Uncle Jim & Terry (no seat belts those days) just enjoying life. Great times, with a wonderful family.

Harold Sullivan

Condolence from Terrie Bad Hand on January 12th, 2023 7:18 pm

Oh my dear Terry. She & my mom Arline spent time together on the front porch on June 28th, 2020. They laughed and talked of many things. My mom is 96 so who knows what they said to each other. My family has many happy memories with Terry from going to the hair dresser to walking in the mud at Taos Pueblo.
Love you Terry and we miss you already.
Terrie Bad Hand & Arline & family.❤

Condolence from Joel Carol Bowen on January 12th, 2023 7:24 pm

I send my condolences to her family. I’ve known Mrs G since the late 70s she has been my dear dear friend. We have done so many SGI activities throughout the years. I am not going to stay farewell or goodbye I’m going to say thank you for being my friend in Nichiren’s Buddhism..

Condolence from Mary OConnell (Sullivan) on January 12th, 2023 8:14 pm

I will always remember the many weekends I spent visiting to play with Irene and how welcomed Terry made me feel. She always had a warm smile, kind heart, words of wisdom and a calming way about her. Terry truly has a beautiful soul. May she rest in peace

Condolence from Stephanie Gordon McSharry on January 12th, 2023 9:12 pm

Jim, Irene and Family, I am so sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. I have so many wonderful memories of holidays, cookouts and family parties. Your mom was such a kind and gentle woman. She always had the greatest smile. I am sure your dad was right there to welcome her home. Sending love to you all.

Condolence from Huntley Nicholas on January 13th, 2023 2:31 am

My deepest condolences to Mrs. Gordon’s family and friends and fellow SGI members.

She set the example for me of what challenging “…the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune …” can create: A peaceful planet and a peaceful universe.

Sayonara

気をつけてください

Condolence from Joe Sullivan on January 13th, 2023 8:00 am

I will always remember teaching Terry about American Change value she was a quick learner.
I’m sure she’s in heaven.

Condolence from Tina Upton on January 13th, 2023 9:51 am

Mrs. Gordon gave so much energy, compassion, encouragement, and wisdom to everyone she met. Her spirit inspired and made you want to conquer the world. She has left behind a beautiful legacy that will carry on for eternity. Be in peace. My deepest condolences to her family, I hope during this time you are surrounded by love and support.

Condolence from donna greene on January 13th, 2023 10:14 am

Dear Jim and Shelly,
I’m deeply sad for the loss of your shining star Mother I’ve had so many times looking back over the decades of memories with your mother she has encouraged so many times in my life too many to list but I’m most grateful for the special day that Steve and I spent with her in Nov. it was so joyful eating cake and Japanese treats. Much Love to your entire family Thank You for sharing your beautiful mother with all of us and know that because of her many Lives were transformed in a positive way.

Condolence from Cathy Brown on January 13th, 2023 10:51 am

Terry was the best friend to my mom Claire when they were both at Brookdale. We have the best memories of your mom staying by Claire’s bedside in her final days. She would sit for hours sometimes with our dog Noa on her lap.

Condolence from Helene Gove on January 13th, 2023 4:43 pm

I am so very sorry for your loss. Mrs Gordon was one of the most beautiful human beings I had the pleasure of knowing. Not only was she one of the wisest but her compassion for others was also what I admired about her. I think about her often and missed seeing her bright and youthful face at the SGI Community Center in Boston.
Yes…
“ I will miss you Mrs. Gordon”. You will always be remembered’❤️🙏

Condolence from Yvette Battle Leaphart on January 13th, 2023 5:50 pm

🙏🏽Mrs. Gordon was our “Mother” Buddhist.! She was as smart as she was “sassy”; beautiful and wise beyond her years, Hers was a voice which could guide us whenever we lost our way. Mrs. Gordon may have been strict, but she was humorous and comforting as well! She epitomized Ikeda Sensei’s mission for kosenrufu, and would inspire us all through her own actions of compassion and faith, and in her guidance. She would be so proud to know her efforts were not in vain. Those of us who were touched by her life will forever remember and revere her for her courage and encouragement ! She is truly missed. I will never forget her!

Condolence from V. Sharif Fennell on January 13th, 2023 6:56 pm

I am so, very terribly sorry for your loss. I cannot comprehend how you must feel, me deepest condolences you the entire family. Mrs. Gordon has had such an unbelievably positive and impactful effect on so many people for so many years. She embodied warmth, compassion, courage and wisdom. Truly one of the most amazing and beautiful human beings I’ve ever come into contact with. Her positive impact, from her tenacious and compassionate spirit, has had both direct and indirect effect on so many. She will undeniably, never be forgotten by all those she has touched and be truly and deeply missed.

Condolence from TMarie Sullivan on January 14th, 2023 6:58 am

My condolences to cousins Irene and Jim. Your Mom with her welcoming and beautiful smile will forever be in heart. I didn’t know auntie Terry very long, and she gave me a beautiful hair barrette and lovely glittery top to wear; I have cherished them through the years. I no longer have the glittery top because I wore it so much, but still have that beautiful barrette. ❤️

Condolence from Nina Bauer on January 14th, 2023 11:59 am

I have known Mrs. G since I began practicing Nichiren Buddhism, 38 years ago As a pioneer member, of SGI-USA, She was able to use her life as a message.

Mrs. G. was able to express the great benefit and happiness derived from her practice , to herself and her family, but also to all those that she engaged with in her environment. She loved people and always sought to encourage them in their life.

I affectionately called her a “ party girl” which caused us both to laugh, as she enjoyed having a good time with her friends.

Condolence from Steve Saperstein on January 14th, 2023 6:25 pm

My heartfelt condolences to the family of Mrs.Gordon..
My 50 year relationship with her was nothing but pure joy. She always made our community of believers feel Happy and secure with her abundant good vibes , warm character ,and deep care and concern for each of us.
I definitely feel her presence as I pray for her
Smooth and peaceful journey.

Thank you Mrs G!!!!!For everything!!!!!!

Condolence from Marionette Fennell-Patterson on January 14th, 2023 7:04 pm

My sincere condolences to Jim, Irene, Shelly and her entire family. Mrs Gordon was a beautiful spirit with an all encompassing warmth and smile that made us feel embraced. She also had a sense of humor and deep concern for her family and the SGI Buddhist community. I remember her participating in African Dance and encouraging everyone. She was my friend and my senior In faith . I will miss her and keep her memory in my heart ❤️

Condolence from Kathy Dewey on January 14th, 2023 7:07 pm

Everyone has already said it all.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Mrs Gordan, for every smile and for every home visit. Your motherly presence at every New England event is lodged in my heart as a forever memory. My sincerest appreciation to the family for always supporting her throughout her life until her blazing sunset. I am deeply sorry for your loss even as you celebrate her victorious life.

Condolence from Tawney A. Wray on January 14th, 2023 7:22 pm

Offering my condolences to Mrs G’s family. Her life reflected her desire for world peace among members and nonmembers alike.

Condolence from Eddie Schaeffer on January 14th, 2023 7:30 pm

My heartfelt condolences for the loss of beautiful Mrs. Gordon! Mrs Gordon knew that I had a strong affection for her rice balls, so she would always give me extra on our long bus trips to places near and far from BOston. Her smile truly lit up a room, and she was always a joy to see and talk to. Even now, I can feel her smile warming my heart! I will be sending waves of NAM Myoho renge KYO to Teruko and her immediate and extended family!

Condolence from Ramcy Mettle on January 14th, 2023 8:12 pm

Ramcy Mettle says
January 14, 2023 at 8:05

My Deepest and Sincere thanks to Mrs Gordon.
She was one of the first women division leaders , with a junior pioneer spirit. I felt warm and welcome from Africa at our small SGI center by then at #7 Harcourt street in Boston 45 years ago . Her encouragement guidance ,sharp eyes ,warm and sincere heart , lead me to deep in my faith in my Buddhist practice as we worked together by cleaning the center.
Happy person without regrets, her spirit still leaves on !!! Thanks again Mrs, Gordon, for your dearly support!!

Condolence from Mary D’Amore on January 14th, 2023 11:35 pm

My heartfelt condolences to the Gordon family. Mrs Gordon was such an inspiration. Her warm smile and caring nature always made me feel welcomed whenever I saw her st a meeting or at the center. thank you for sharing her with us.

Condolence from Joel Bitton on January 14th, 2023 11:39 pm

There are some people you wish could live forever. Mrs Gordon, I’m going to eat sushi and drink sake in your memory. Thank you for your friendship and wisdom.

Condolence from Vanessa Wellington on January 15th, 2023 5:28 am

I remember the first time I met Mrs. Gordon in 1996 at the Boston kaikan. I was on maternity leave and brought my infant daughter with me so I could volunteer for the prep of an exhibit opening at the Ikeda Center. I had moved to Boston the previous year and was really missing my Japanese Mom so I (and my daughter) were introduced to Mrs. Gordon. She and my Mom were from the same prefecture, and as you can imagine, it was wonderful spending time with her. I am back “home” in the Seattle area but I’m sending you all much love and daimoku.

Condolence from Elizabeth Guay on January 15th, 2023 2:11 pm

It is the heart that matters. Terry Gordon’s kind heart and generous spirit will always be with all who knew her. Condolences to Jim , Irene and families.

Condolence from Anne Hudson on January 15th, 2023 4:21 pm

My deepest condolences to Mrs. Gordon’s family. I met her 50 years ago when I was a new member of the SGI, and she was a very senior member! She was warm and encouraging, and I still remember how she made me feel–she made me feel valued. Her dedication to Buddhist practice, her care for others, and her joy touched me and countless others over than and over the ensuing decades. She was and is a great treasure of the Buddhist movement for peace.

I remember in particular watching her perform with the Women’s Dvision African Dance Group in the early 200s0s. As she danced with women 20, 30, and 40 years younger than she was, she inspired us all.

Again, my deepest condolences to Mrs. Gordon’s family on your loss.

Condolence from Greer and Rob on January 16th, 2023 3:58 pm

Jimmy and Shelly … deepest condolences to you and your whole family. Your Mom was fun to have around at Christmas for sure! Peace be with you all.

Condolence from Pamela Coombs Delis on January 16th, 2023 4:01 pm

I met Mrs. Gordon when Jim and I were high school band friends. My memories of her were that she was very quiet, soft-spoken, and she exuded an aura of kindness. My sincere condolences to all her loved ones as they grieve the loss of someone so special.

Condolence from Sandy Schrick on January 17th, 2023 8:48 am

Jim, Shelly, Isaac, and Lily:
I’m sad to hear the news of your mother, mother-in-law, grandmother passing away. My heartfelt and deepest condolences for your loss. I hadn’t met her but, in learning of her Buddhist practice, I sincerely regret not getting to know her. I hold all of you in my thoughts and prayers as you navigate this personal loss of such a beautiful, resilient, kind woman. The world is a little less brighter today without her.

Condolence from Jill Cibella Shirai on January 18th, 2023 9:01 am

Dear Mrs Gordon,

You have been a pillar to the Boston SGI community since the beginning. Your warm smiles, your big embracing heart, your compassionate wisdom and guidances to folks from all walks of life were an example for us all on how to live the way of a Bodhisattva of the Earth.
I’m sure that you are now enjoying the view from Eagle Peak. Your legacy will live on as we strive to continue to implement in our own lives what we learned from your example.
Sending daimoku to you and to your family members.
NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO ❤️💛💙

Condolence from Kathy Cox on January 20th, 2023 7:57 pm

As I chant for Mrs Gordon’s eternal happiness during my morning and evening prayers for deceased family and friends…I smile…as her smile continues to impact all in a beautiful way from wherever she is in the universe, as she rests, renews and prepares to emerge anew one day for her next mission. I can still clearly remember going to neighborhood Buddhist discussion meetings throughout Boston last century and Mrs Gordon would be there to encourage us to study our SGI publications to deepen our faith and become happy. The last time I saw her was this century at a conference at the SGI Florida Nature and Culture Center. I hadn’t seen her in years and I was overcome with joy to be able to see that smile again, and to share a hug . A wonderful memory of a beautiful human being.

Condolence from Karen Baldassare on January 22nd, 2023 7:43 pm

To the family, friends and loved ones of Mrs. Gordon. Please accept my heartfelt warmth and understanding of your recent loss. Teruko’s brilliant smile was the sun rising and her calm face was the softness of the moon at night. I will think of this every day as I offer prayers for the eternal happiness of all our deceased family and friends.

Thank you, Mrs. Gordon, for everything you did for us.

Condolence from Steve Saperstein on May 5th, 2023 9:36 am

Mrs.Gordon. My mom in faith!!
When she called my name I was encouraged.
Thank you Mrs.G!!!
Thank you for everything!!

Hope we can meet again!!!

Article printed from Direct Cremation of the Seacoast: https://www.directcremationseacoast.com

URL to article: https://www.directcremationseacoast.com/obituaries/teruko-terry-gordon/

Copyright © 2015 Cremation Society By The Sea | Serving New Hampshire & Massachusetts. All rights reserved.