Terrence F. McCabe Sr.

AUGUSTA – Terrence F. McCabe Sr., affectionately known as “Terry,” passed away peacefully on Feb. 13, 2026, surrounded by loved ones at the Maine Veterans’ Home in Scarborough.

He was born Sept. 26, 1936, in Guilford to the late Colonel Francis J. McCabe and Helena Elias McCabe. Terry spent much of his childhood in the Augusta area and graduated from Cony High School in 1954. He also cherished memories of living in Osterville on Cape Cod and several years in Thomaston, where his father served as warden of the Maine State Prison.

Terry began his college education at Saint Bede College in Peru, Illinois, before transferring to the University of Maine in Orono. During his college years, he enlisted in the United States Army and served two years in Korea. Following his military service, he returned to Orono to continue his studies.

Throughout his career, Terry devoted himself to education, public service, and community development. He taught at Milo and Hallowell High Schools and worked with the Job Corps for Women at Poland Spring. His professional path later included roles in law enforcement public relations and education, service as Executive Director of the Sanford Chamber of Commerce, and leadership in economic and community development in Waterville. Terry also served on the staff of Governor James B. Longley and contributed to committees under Governor Kenneth M. Curtis.

A lifelong civic leader, Terry was deeply involved in community organizations. He served on the Board of Directors and Trustees of Old Fort Western and was an incorporator and president of the Spirit of America Foundation. He was an active member of American Legion Post 6, WISDOM, and the Maine Jaycees, where he held numerous offices and was honored as a JCI Senator. Terry was especially proud of his years as a Jaycee and the programs developed during that time, including advocacy for seat belt implementation. He believed strongly in fostering leadership skills in young people.

Terry embraced life with warmth and enthusiasm. He loved his family and the many friendships he built over the years. Known for his infectious smile and gift for storytelling, he found joy in gardening, his dogs, and time spent at his camp in Winthrop, where he enjoyed fishing and swimming. Terry and his wife, Lorraine, shared a love of travel and spent many winters in Florida and Arizona. He was proud to be the first American honorary member of the St. Patrick’s Old Boy Association in Quebec City and a member of the Kehlani Club there. Terry especially treasured his travels to Europe, Brazil, and Japan, always preferring to explore local culture and connect with people beyond typical tourist paths.

Terry is survived by his beloved wife, Lorraine (Kehoe) Chase McCabe of Westbrook; his four children: Francis J. McCabe and his wife Catherine of Whitehall, Maryland, Bridget C. McCabe and her partner Randy Nolan of Falmouth, Michael T. McCabe, and Terrence F. McCabe, Jr. of Newcastle. He is also survived by his stepchildren: Kristin Chase Duffy and her husband Bill of Portland, Julie Chase Connett and her husband Steve of Newport, Rhode Island, and Jessica L. Chase and her partner Jens Lange of Newport, Rhode Island. He is further survived by two adopted daughters, Claudia Ritch-Smith of Falmouth and Robyn Foss of Saco.

Additional survivors include his granddaughter, Capri S. McCabe of Newcastle; step-grandchildren Rachel Jennifer and her husband Riley, Jeffrey Hill and his wife Cara, Patrick W. and Kathryn K. Duffy, and Benjamin M. and Jocelyn K. Connett; along with many cousins and dear friends.

Terry was predeceased by his beloved granddaughter, Rohan McCabe Marley, and his stepson, David E. Chase.

His life was marked by service, leadership, curiosity, and deep devotion to family and community. He will be greatly missed.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, February 27, from 4-6 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, February 28, at 12 p.m., noon, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 41 Western Ave., Augusta, ME 04330. Interment will take place in the spring. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Terry’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital by visiting http://www.stjude.org.