Queanbeyan legend ‘Tex’ laid to rest on NZ family farm
Much loved Queanbeyan resident Terry O’Callaghan who passed away last May has been laid to rest in a touching memorial at the O’Callaghan family farm in New Zealand.
A Queanbeyan resident since the 1990’s, Terry became unwell after a major fall outside The Q performing arts centre in May last year. Q! News reported at the time that he was taken to Queanbeyan Hospital, then The Canberra Hospital, before being sent home to rest. He sadly passed away a week later.
Terry’s siblings Micheal, Sharon and Barry.
In July the O’Callaghan family hosted a wake in the city he so adored. Terry’s family members including brother Barry, sister Sharon and niece Carley travelled to celebrate the life of ‘Tex’ with the entire Queanbeyan community. The event was held at Walsh’s and included a display with his beloved black boots and hat, as well as a portrait painted by friend Jenny Norwood.
Terry’s brothers Barry and Micheal erecting a plaque in his memory.
In the days after his passing Q! News learned about the remarkable life of ‘Tex‘ and shared a story of his large loving family back in New Zealand and his incredible dream of becoming a millionaire opal miner.
Terry’s ashes have now been scattered on the family farm where he grew up, a 600-acre farm named Green Valley in North Canterbury, Culverden.
Older brother Barry had a beautiful stone plaque made, to be placed at the site of their parents grave, honouring Terry and the town he loved most- Queanbeyan.
Terry’s niece scattering his ashes on the family farm.
Terry’s brother Michael travelled all the way from Boston to be at the memorial, while his brother Barry came from Brisbane. Many family members including Terry’s Mum, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews also attended.
The O’Callaghan family at the Green Valley farm in December.
“We were overwhelmed by the support and love we received from Queanbeyan when uncle Terry passed away,” niece Carley says.
“We had no idea he was so well-known and so loved by the people there. It’s been just amazing.”
Rest In Peace Terry, you’re very missed.
Photos taken by Andy Brown Photography.
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About the Author: Holly Winchester
Part Jennifer Coolidge, part Jennifer Garner (gaudy and geeky), Holly idolises Dolly Parton and Princess Di and loves NRL. When she's not creating killer content, you’ll find Holly at the Maccas drive thru getting her chai latte fix or buying 1990s memorabilia for the walls of her Googong home. Specialist subject: the Woolies carpark.
