Civic-minded attorney took delight in cycling

Terry Farrell twirled his daughter Christine as the two glided along the dance floor to “Dance with Me Daughter of Mine,” during her August wedding reception.

Belinda, Terry's wife, said her heart melted as she watched the tender moment. Mr. Farrell so wanted the dance to be perfect that he had taken waltz lessons with his daughter.

J. Terrence Farrell, 65, of White Oak, died on Wednesday, June 5, 2013.

“That was one of the highlights of his life,” his wife said. “He was so proud when he was dancing.”

Inspired by his father, the late J. Paul Farrell, Mr. Farrell pursued a career in law. He graduated from Duquesne University Law School in 1977.

Upon graduation, Mr. Farrell returned to McKeesport, where he was born and raised, to join his father's law practice, specializing in estate law. He met Belinda, who was working in the office, and practiced law in the city for 30 years.

Mr. Farrell served on a number of professional and civic organizations that ranged from banking to books, including the McKeesport Lions Club, McKeesport Heritage Center, Boston Rails to Trails, McKeesport Palisades and McKeesport Performing Arts Center.

“He always wanted to be involved,” his wife said. “He wanted to do as much as he could for as many people as he could.”

When he wasn't working or volunteering, Mr. Farrell enjoyed bike riding. He rode trails in Ireland, Puerto Rico, Captiva Island and New York City's five boroughs.

It wasn't unusual to see a little fluffy head poking over his shoulder on bike rides. That was his beloved Pekingese, Pokey.

“He used to carry her on his back and bike with her,” Belinda Farrell said. “She did the trails with him. That was really his favorite pastime.”

In addition to his wife, Mr. Farrell is survived by three children, Michelle Farrell Gilligan, Christine Farrell Zacharia and J. Paul Farrell; and three grandchildren, Maximilian and Alexander Gilligan and Peter Farrell.

Friends will be received from 2 to 9 p.m. on Friday in Hunter Funeral Home Inc. in McKeesport. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. Saturday in Christ the Light of the World Church in Duquesne.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the McKeesport Heritage Center or Carnegie Library of McKeesport.

Amanda Dolasinski is a staff writer for Trib Total Media. She can be reached at 724-836-6220 or adolasinski@tribweb.com.