Richard Terry Handley

Terry was born on Halloween, October 31, 1943, to Dr. and Mrs. Richard Handley in Omaha Nebraska, while his father was attending medical school. Terry was the first of the five Handley children and enjoyed five years as Flora's only child. The family returned home to the Salinas Valley where Terry and his siblings grew up. Terry attended elementary school in Soledad and graduated from Gonzales High School in 1961. He then attended Santa Clara University where he majored in Spanish Literature. Terry fell in love with Spain after spending a year abroad as an exchange student. He then studied and received his Master's Degree through New York University in Madrid, Spain.

Returning to California, he began his teaching career in Pittsburg as an English as a second language instructor. Terry enjoyed life in the Bay Area where he married his wife Diane, and adopted their children, David and Tina. The family built a life in the Bay Area before Terry, David and Tina returned to Greenfield. Once Terry was back in the Salinas Valley, he continued his teaching career as a bilingual sixth grade teacher at El Gabilan School in the Salinas Elementary School District. He retired from teaching in 2005.

He was an avid bowler, archer, photographer, bridge player and a fierce competitor. He spent many happy days camping and shooting archery at ranges in the western United States where he and daughter Tina competed. Terry also loved music and singing alongside his brother, Randy. The Los Vaqueros Hunting Club Traveling Band included Rich Casey and Roger Hill, along with Randy and Terry. What began around the campfire at hunting camp, grew to include many venues throughout the Salinas Valley.

Terry had a teacher's heart and his caring and kindness touched many throughout his journey in life. He never judged and continued to love his family and open his home to many people and cats over the years.

Terry is survived by his children, David and Tina; and his grandchildren, Jadah, Chance and Janayah. He is also survived by his siblings, Randy (Kay); sisters, Becky and Charmaine; nephews, Steven (Jessica), Sean (Courtney); nieces, Lauren (David) and Chelsea. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Richard and Flora Handley; sister, Robbin; and wife, Diane.

A special thanks to Terry's bonus daughter Jessica Rodriguez and friend Doug Jones for their love, kindness, dedication and assistance.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Soledad Historical Society or the Salinas Bowmen, where Terry, his family and friends spent many days enjoying the range.

Services will be held at Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church in Soledad on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. Rosary will begin at 10:30am with services to follow at 11:00am.

Published in King City Rustler and Salinas Valley Tribune · January 27, 2026