Theresa Marie Cirelli, known affectionately as Terry by her loved ones, was called to her eternal rest on March 12, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on December 2, 1937, in the bustling heart of the Little Italy section of Manhattan, NY, Terry was a beacon of warmth and joy throughout her life, touching the hearts of all who knew her. Her final days were spent in the serene surroundings of Yorktown Heights, NY, where she passed peacefully after a courageous battle with Parkinson's and Dementia.
Terry was the beloved matriarch of her family, a role she cherished above all. Her devotion to her family was unwavering, and her love boundless. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles, with whom she shared a beautiful and enduring partnership. She leaves behind a legacy of love and wisdom in her sons, Chip and Christopher, and her daughter-in-law, Tiffany. Terry's spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of her grandchildren, Deanna, Nicholas, Victoria, Joseph, Gianna, and Angelina, and her great-grandson, Bentley. She was also the cherished sister to Ralph Marrone and Anthony Marrone, and a treasured aunt to many nieces and nephews in the New York and New Jersey areas.
Professionally, Terry will be remembered for her dedication to education and her nurturing spirit as a substitute teacher in the Lakeland Central School District in Shrub Oak, NY. Her passion for teaching was evident in the countless lives she influenced, guiding children across various ages and grade levels with patience and kindness. After enriching the minds of the young, Terry embarked on a second career as a Risk Management Manager for MasterCard International in Purchase, NY, where she demonstrated her acumen and integrity until her retirement in 2012.
A woman of deep Christian faith, Terry walked through life with grace and gratitude, living out the tenets of love and service that her religion espoused. Her faith was her compass, guiding her through life's trials and triumphs with an unwavering belief in the goodness of the Lord.
Terry's zest for life was infectious, and her enthusiasm for her hobbies knew no bounds. Tennis was her most cherished pastime, a sport she played with vigor and joy. She also found pleasure in golf, dancing, and bridge games, as well as volunteering for her sons Boy Scouts of America Troops as a Den Leader and Team Mom for both of the boys soccer and lacrosse teams in their youth. As well as traveling with Americares & The Barbara Bush Foundation to help the more unfortunate in her local areas and countries around the globe. Her devoted Americares trip to Guatemala to assist with the needs of the struggling residents of Guatemala City and nearby areas earned her an elite award from First Lady Barbara Bush and MasterCard International. Each activity an opportunity to connect with friends and savor the moments. A true adventurer at heart, Terry embraced travel and new experiences with open arms, always eager to explore the wonders of the world.
Those who knew Terry will remember her as a loving, funny, and adventurous soul. Her laughter was a melody that resonated in the hearts of her loved ones, her sense of humor a gift that lightened any room. Her adventurous spirit inspired many to step beyond their comfort zones and embrace life with courage and curiosity.
As we bid farewell to Terry, we celebrate the extraordinary life she led and the countless ways in which she enriched our lives. Her memory will be cherished, her lessons treasured, and her love felt always. Terry's light, though no longer with us in body, will continue to guide us in spirit, a shining example of a life well-lived and a heart well-loved
