It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Terrence Joseph Lee, on May 25, 2026, at Victoria General Hospital following complications from cancer.
Terry was born in Toronto and raised in Peterborough, Ontario. Over 73 years, he lived a very meaningful life. He studied Sociology at Carleton and Acadia Universities before pursuing a career as a master carpenter, finding success as a site manager, contractor, and business owner.
For years, Terry divided his time between British Columbia and Ontario before settling in Victoria in the 1980s. It was there he met his charming wife, Sandra. Together they shared a passion for travel, culture, entertaining, poodles, music, and a general curiosity about the human condition.
Terry loved his family deeply and was always there to offer support. He cherished lifelong friendships while also building many new relationships alongside Sandra. Together, they mentored students, helping them achieve their personal and academic goals.
Those who knew Terry will remember him as a kind, passionate, and generous man whose life was rich in accomplishment and richer in love. His warmth, wisdom, and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on all.
Terry is lovingly remembered by his brothers, James and Chris (Cheryl); his nieces, Jessica, Serena, Aimee, Vanessa, Katia, Alana, and Sarah; and his nephews, Dane, Brendan, and Joey. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Sandra Lee Taylor; his father, Brendan; his mother, Doreen; his sister, Barb; and his brother, Mike, who remain forever in our thoughts.
A Celebration of Terry’s Life will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC, V8Y 1B4 on Saturday, September 19th, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. A reception will follow.
Donations in memory of Terry can be made to The Canadian Cancer Society.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Lee” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
-
William Lamb
-
Claudia Sutterby I’m so very sorry to hear of Terry’s death. He was an old friend of my brother + sister-in-law, and they suggested we meet since I was new to Victoria. He was a lovely man, and he was like another older brother.
I remember when the puppies were born And it was absolute chaos at the house but the puppies were fantastically trained, considering I think it was their first litter, I was so impressed.
Quick to wit and quick to laughter, infectious laughter, I’m sorry I lost track of Terry because of my move to England. Further saddened to hear of Sandra’s death proceeding him by only months.
A kind, lovely and talented man.
Another bright spark gone. x
-
William Lamb A memory of Terry:
This was more than 20 years ago
We had been drinking and playing frisbee in my backyard.
Terry was staggering around but every time he threw the frisbee it was right to me . . every time!
He could barely stand up. It was amazing!
He was amazing!
-
Kirk and Heather Roy Terry was a creative, thoughtful soul with a true gift for friendship. We had a lovely visit with him and Sandra last time we went west, and are so sad to know it was our last time being with them in their beloved home. He stayed with us briefly last time he came east, and it’s hard to accept that we only have memories of him now. He is missed and always loved.
Playing frisbee with Terry:
This was more than 20 years ago, before Sandra.
We were drinking and playing frisbee in my backyard.
Terry was the only person I ever met who could stagger and throw frisbee dead straight at the same time . . every time!
He was amazing as well a solid man.