Kenneth Alfred Tervalon died of a heart attack in his home on December 22. He was 65.

Tervalon was born in Philadelphia on October 26, 1946, to Marie and Albert Tervalon Sr.

The second of four children, Tervalon was educated in Philadelphia Catholic schools, graduating from St. Joseph’s High School in 1964. He attended Dickenson College for a brief period of time, followed by several years in Officer’s Candidate School.

Tervalon received a life prison sentence in 1971, which he served at Graterford Prison, Pennsylvania. On September 22, 1992, the Gov. Robert Casey granted Tervalon a commutation, thanks to extraordinary efforts by his parents and the Pennsylvania Prison Society.

Tervalon’s subsequent 19 years of freedom were filled with the joy of friends, family, employment and the devotion of his loving wife, Vanessa Wallace Tervalon. Tervalon’s health challenges were many during this time and he courageously accepted this burden.

Tervalon is survived by his wife, Vanessa; her daughter, Ayinda; grandson, Lafayette; siblings, Albert, Melanie and Renata; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Tervalon’s name can be made to: Pennsylvania Prison Society, 245 North Broad St., Suite 300, Phila, PA 19017-1505.