Commander (Retired USCG) Terrence Lee “Terry” Stagg passed away at the age of 76. Born on January 23, 1949, in Warren, Ohio, to Lieutenant Colonel (Retired Army) Granville Mason Stagg and Carolyn Elizabeth Ripple. Terry lived a life defined by service, family, and dedication to his country. Terry graduated from Oak Ridge High School in Orlando, Florida, before attending Florida State University. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree from UCLA and a Master’s Degree from Pepperdine University. A lifelong learner, Terry continued taking courses into retirement at St. Petersburg College to keep his mind sharp. Terry was most proud of his service in the United States Coast Guard, where he flew search and rescue missions in HH-3F helicopters and HC-130H transport aircraft. He also served in the U.S. Coast Guard Ceremonial Honor Guard under President Richard Nixon. Over his 20 years of military service, he was stationed in Pensacola, FL; St. Petersburg, FL; Annette, AK; New Orleans, LA; Mobile, AL; Clearwater, FL; and Sacramento, CA. After retiring from the Coast Guard, Terry continued his aviation career as an airline pilot with Capitol Cargo, flying 727s, and later as a C-130 instructor Pilot at VAE USA. He became world-renowned for his flight simulator and ground school training, always delivered with a signature sense of humor. Terry also served as Past Captain of the Ye Mystic Krewe of Neptune and was a proud member of the Coast Guard Aviation Association. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Barbara Joyce; his daughter, Tara Elizabeth Breard (Jason) of New Orleans; his grandchildren, Sydney Elizabeth of Tokyo, Japan, Cheney Paige of New Orleans, and James Trouard of New Orleans; his sister-in-law, Connie Paul of Tampa; and nephews Eric and Casey of Orlando. He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Eric. Terry will be laid to rest at a private ceremony at Tallahassee National Cemetery. Terry’s life was a testament to courage, service, and love for family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
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Our prayers to Terry’s family bad we learn of your loss. As a C130 flight engineer, I flew countless hours with Terry as my aircraft commander. Additionally, Terry’s lifelong learning approach to life and his selfless encouragement and guidance were instrumental in my pursuit toward a higher education and professional excellence. He will be missed but never forgotten.
ayo sorry for your loss may he rest in peace
-Lil cheese Jr.
Our deepest sympathies to hear of this loss! I thoroughly enjoyed flying with Mr Stagg who was a great pilot! He was also a great friend. Have alot of great memories of just knowing him and his great sense of humor. We shared alot of laughs. He will be greatly missed! Will be lifting all of you in prayers during this sad time and knowing he will missed! He was larger than life. Praying for peace, comfort and strength for all of you! 🙏🏼🙏🏼
Barbara and Tara, we are sorry for your loss. We have many good memories of Normandy CT. May he rest in peace
Terry was a good man when I grew up on Normandy CT Seminole FL. Terry and my father would talk lots outside of Terry’s home. Terry told me about his USCG adventures. I joined the Army in 99 myself and did 7 years. There was a select few neighbors that knew the sacrifices of serving our great country and Terry was 1 for sure. My God bless you and receive you Terry til we meet again brother. Prayer to the Stagg family. My condolences Veteran Frank Leonardo.