To the CYOA Community,

It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our fellow member and dedicated board member, Jesse Terry.

Jesse passed away August 1st while preparing his beloved Abigail, a 1956 Alden ketch, for the heart of the Maine classic yachting season. Jesse’s unwavering dedication to classic yachts and the community surrounding them was evident to anyone who had the pleasure of sailing with—or against—him.

Whether racing offshore in the Bermuda Race or, most recently, in the Marblehead to Halifax Race just weeks ago, Jesse demonstrated how preparation and passion can take a classic yacht far beyond the horizon. Abigail wasn’t just a boat—she was his partner in adventure, and he proved what was possible with skill, care, and vision.

At the time of his passing, Jesse was leading his division in the Classic Yacht Challenge Series and was a vital part of shaping what the circuit is today traveling throughout the Northeast to connect with others who shared his love of camaraderie and competition on the water.

Jesse was also a gifted writer, capturing what it means to be a passionate steward of classic yachts. His reflections have inspired many of us and will continue to do so.

Plans for a memorial and appropriate tributes to Jesse’s contributions to the classic yachting community will be shared in due time. For now, we hold Jesse, his family, and the crew of Abigail in our thoughts as we mourn the loss of a sailor, a friend, and a true advocate for the classics.

Fair winds, Jesse. You will be missed.

— The Classic Yacht Owners Association