Last updated on: January 30, 2025
Born to parents on July 27, 1938, in Detroit, Michigan, Terry Harrington grew up within a modest North Omaha, Nebraska household. Financially, their family was under pressure, and Terry had football as his ultimate passion. For him, that was the real game, which he soon trained local youth playing football. With his knowledge of the game coupled with dedication and commitment, community people respected Terry. Football turned out to make much of life for him. He became that familiar figure, known to anyone in Omaha for his love.
Quick Facts About Terry Harrington
Full Name | Terry Harrington |
Birthdate
Died |
July 27, 1938
2021 |
Occupation | Advocate for criminal justice reform |
Husband/Wife | Wife: Judy Harrington |
Education | Attended Wellesley High School, Boston College |
Age | 83 years (at the time of passing) |
Parents | Father: Terry Harrington Sr., Mother: Not known |
Siblings | Not Known |
Children | 3 sons: Matt Harrington, Jay Harrington, Adam Harrington |
Net Worth | Estimated at $1 million |
Wrongful Conviction
In 1978, Terry was just 19 years old when his life took a devastating turn. He was wrongly convicted of first-degree murder for killing a police officer. He never committed the crime. He received a life imprisonment sentence without a chance of parole. The case was tried in front of a jury that had no blacks at all. According to Terry, racial bias heavily influenced the judgment. There was no direct physical evidence proving that he had committed the crime, and those testimonies used to help prove his conviction are questionable. And yet, with all these said, Terry remained convicted.
He became one example of people’s wrongful judgment in court, such as that from race to a number of reasons. He tried to clear up his case in court for almost 25 years. Always said he is not guilty; yet nobody believes him.
Life in Prison
Toughest life in prison for Terry was. He was young, yet alone in a harmful world. He would face a tough struggle to survive initially, but then he adapted and changed. He was hardened and distanced himself from his previous life. This was necessary to stay alive. But amidst all these hardships, Terry never lost faith in his innocence being proved. He was clear of all wrongdoings and kept demanding justice.
The Road to Exoneration
It was in 2016 that nearly 25 years in prison had almost taken its toll on Terry. But now new evidence surfaced. DNA testing proved that he was not guilty of the crime he had been convicted of. This led to the exonerating of Terry and finally letting him out of prison. The truth came out, and because of his case, hope for others who had also been wrongly convicted began to rise. The case also exposed horrible problems in the justice system, especially racial bias.
Life After Exoneration
Terry’s life took a new turn after his release. He became an advocate for criminal justice reform. He wanted to raise awareness about wrongful convictions and how the system needs to change. Terry traveled to schools, community groups, and other places to share his story. He wanted people to know that wrongful convictions happen, and they hurt not just the person involved, but their families too.
Terry’s journey wasn’t easy. It took years of struggle, pain, and loss. Still, through it all, he didn’t give in. His story gave hope to others that they too could win over the injustices they were facing.
Terry’s Family
Terry Harrington was also a father. His son, Jay Harrington, is a famous actor. Jay appeared in many popular TV shows, such as Better Off Ted and S.W.A.T. Terry’s family remained with him when he was behind the bars and also when he came back. His sons loved their father for his strength and endurance.
Terry had a wife named Judy Harrington. He was married for many years, and his love did not fade away for his wife Judy Harrington. Terry and his wife had three sons, and he was attached to all his sons. He was a great inspiration to all of them with his story of survival and strength. His family, especially his sons, feel proud of him because he fought for justice, and they will always remember him for this aspect of his character.
READ ALSO: Jay Harrington Net worth, Age, Girlfrend, Family, Facts & More
Terry Harrington’s Legacy
Sadly, Terry Harrington passed away on July 20, 2022. His life was full of many challenges, but he never gave up. His story is one of survival, strength, and hope. He became a voice for those who have been wrongfully convicted and for those fighting to fix the justice system. Terry’s legacy will live on through his family, his work, and his determination to never give up.
Terry Harrington’s life teaches us about justice, fighting for what is right, and standing strong in the face of adversity. His story will continue to inspire many for years to come.
Source: celebs.infoseemedia.com