1950

santaclaramagazine@gmail.com

Joseph Thomas Nally ’50, August 4, 1928 – June 30, 2014. He was born in Los Angeles, the second son of Catherine Byrne Nally and Patrick Aloysius Nally. Joe was fiercely loyal to his family and friends, was immensely proud of his country and of his Irish American heritage. Joe attended Mount Carmel High School in Los Angeles. Dedicated and determined, he was elected student body president and also played football, track, and baseball throughout. After being awarded "All-ity" honors in both track and baseball, Joe was awarded a full scholarship to Santa Clara University. In the fall of 1946, Joe moved north and immediately began his "second career" as everyone’s favorite Bronco. He was a proud member of the class of 1950. Joe played shortstop on the Bronco team, and following graduation he was drafted by the Yankee organization. After playing a season, Joe was called to serve his country in Korea as an Army First Lieutenant. A year later, he returned home, began his insurance career and married Teresa Bannan, to whom he remained devoted for the remainder of his life. Joe had a storied career in the insurance business that led to great success and enabled him to pursue his life’s great passion: being a "man for others." Joe never turned down a plea for help, a person in need, or an organization in turmoil. The Carmelites at Santa Teresita, the Little Sisters of the Poor, Dolores Mission, The Doheny Foundation, Santa Clara University, Loyola Marymount University, Good Shepherd Center, Verbum Dei, Mayfield Senior School and Loyola High School are but a few examples of his continued support, largess and devotion. We will miss the twinkle in his eye, his unique sense of humor, his thoughtful and often repeated advice and his ever-present "ticky" lists. Joe is survived by his wife of 61 years, Terry Nally, his children and their spouses, Patrick Nally ’78, J.D. ’82, ’82 and Mary Nally ’78, Mary Ternan ’83 and Ed Ternan ’83, as well as his six grandchildren, Joseph Nally ’10, Catherine Nally ’12, and Daniel Nally, Edward, Teresa and Charles Ternan, two brothers-in-law and their families, and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom will be forever grateful for Papa’s love, humor and counsel. 

08 Nov 2018