Dr. John D. Termine

Kiawah Island – John D. Termine, 82, died at home on June 3, 2021 after a long battle with multiple health challenges. He passed away peacefully holding the hand of his bride of almost 60 years, Virginia (Galvin), and with his four children, Mary (Gaston), John, Theresa, and Anne by his side. He is also survived by 10 much-loved grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

John was born on September 25, 1938 in Brooklyn, NY, son of Charles Angelo Termine and Mary Rafael Fiore. He was the youngest brother to Sr. Regina, Rev. Vincent, Frances (DeVries), and Charles. He joins them all in God’s presence, probably to continue arguing with his brothers about who is the favorite and to hear his sisters settle that argument once and for all.

A life-long scholar and brilliant scientist, John received his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from St. John’s University in 1960; a Master of Science degree in Biochemistry from the University of Maryland in 1963; and his Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the Cornell University Medical College in 1966. He spent more than 20 years as a research biochemist at the National Institute of Dental Research within the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, focusing on diseases of bone and enamel. He rose within the NIDR ranks to become Chief of the Bone Research Branch. In 1991, he became Vice President and Executive Director at Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Co., where he led a team in the development of a breakthrough treatment for osteoporosis. He retired in 2000.

John and Virginia lived on Kiawah lsland, SC for the last 21 years, enjoying family, friends, and many of the things they love surrounded by the natural beauty of the Lowcountry. They built a home large enough for all the children and grandchildren to congregate, making it home base for the entire family. John was an active member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church, serving on the Building and Finance Committees, and, most importantly, as cantor and baritone in the fabulous choir. He was well-known for his extensive wine collection and even more extensive knowledge of wine, both of which he loved to share. Despite health challenges, he went to the gym often, holding court and entertaining his friends. John lived life to the fullest, always with Virginia (his “dolly”) by his side.

Dr. John Termine's Mass of Christian Burial will be held 2:00 PM Friday, June 11, 2021 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 3871 Betsy Kerrison Parkway, Johns Island, SC. The Rite of Committal will immediately follow in the churchyard columbarium. Those who wish to remember John in a special way may make contributions to the John D. Termine Memorial Fund at Holy Spirit Catholic Church.