Terry "Ted" Dolan

On August 4th, 2024, the tremendously beloved man, Terry Dolan, known fondly within his family as “Ted”, was killed in an automobile accident at the age of 70. 

Terry was born on March 21st, 1954, in Albuquerque, New Mexico to Terrance Leo and Lucille Mary (née Jaramillo) Dolan. He attended Queen of Heaven School and St. Pius High School. He earned his Bachelor and Master degrees in Special Education through the University of New Mexico. 

He was a special education teacher at Hayes Middle School for 28 years where he also served as Head Special Education Teacher and was considered a gem by staff, students, and their families. The love for his students was not only palpable within the walls of Hayes Middle School, but also at home where he baked a birthday cake for every student and hosted an annual cook-out for his class. He understood the importance of teaching his students not only academic knowledge but also that they were loved. 

Hayes Middle School was not only a cornerstone in Terry’s professional life, but also in his personal life. It was here that he met his “angel”, Melinda Lee (née Bray) Dolan, who has proudly carried the esteemed title of “Terry Dolan’s wife” since 1983. In addition to Melinda, Terry is also survived by his daughter, Ella Dolan (husband, Joel Smith); son, Joseph Dolan (wife, Elle Reubie); sister, Pat Dolan (husband, Tom Selby); brother, Michael Dolan (wife, Carol Champion); father-in-law, Richard Bray; brother-in-law, Jon Bray; and beloved extended family and friends. Terry was expecting his first grandchild in September – a precious gift from his son and daughter-in-law. He was excited to be called “Grandpa” as he had such a special relationship with his own Grandpa. We are confident Terry is now feeling the joy of having met his granddaughter beyond this mortal plane. He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents (Terrence and Ella Dolan & Abel and Severita Jaramillo); sister, Kathi Dolan; brother, Timmy Dolan; mother-in-law, Pat Bray; grandmothers-in-law, Krotona Bray and Anna Hall; and several other cherished family members and friends. 

For all who knew him, and even some who did not, Terry’s legacy is a testament to his kindness, generosity, selflessness, dedication, perseverance, and steadfast love. While Terry was loved by many, many adults, his most treasured connections were often with the countless children and teenagers with whom he formed bonds throughout his life. 

Many who knew Terry also knew of his decades-long struggle with chronic pain. This pain took so much from him, including his ability to continue the career he loved. He retired from teaching in 2003, but this certainly did not mean he stopped connecting with kids and their families. He had already been heavily involved in the sports of his children acting as coach, referee, etc. and was able to pour his heart into Roadrunner Little League (RRLL) where he was, and continues to be, adored. Here, he served as a dedicated umpire, but also worked tirelessly to maintain the fields, hold training clinics, mentor youth umpires, support players and their families, and be the general go-to guy for any other odds and ends at RRLL. 

He was a life-long Dallas Cowboys fan and spent many Sunday afternoons pacing up and down his hallway with the game on both TVs and the radio. He had a playful spirit and left us with a never-ending list of funny pranks and jokes played on those he loved most. You may have been lucky enough to have received the nickname “Sport” from Terry, which he used often, as had his dad. Though he lived a life of endless service to others and blessed so many people, he was infinitely humble. He gave without expectation and loved without hesitation. He is missed beyond words. 

A celebration of Terry's life will be held Saturday, August 17th, 2024 at St. Stephen's United Methodist Church, 4601 Juan Tabo Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111. Celebration will begin at 1:00pm with talks shortly after including open mic opportunities. Light refreshments will be available throughout.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Roadrunner Little League or Special Olympics.