Merokean Theresa Tomaszewski dead at 90

Theresa “Terri” Tomaszewski, of Merrick, died peacefully at 90 years young on May 25, at Hospice at the Beach in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.

Tomaszewski was born on March 31, 1927, in Brooklyn to Pietro and Anna Messana, both deceased, and she is predeceased by her brother, Joseph Messana.

Tomaszewski was a dedicated family person who lived in the Bellmore-Merrick community for 65 years, according to her daughter, Patricia. She had a business career that spanned decades, working for Harran Coachways, after which she retired at 80.

Never shy, she shared her opinions, vibrant energy and love for people with all whom she knew.

“Terri would like you all to know that her loving work here is done,” said Tomaszewski’s daughter, Patricia. “Her new mission takes her to a wonderful place where she will be able to do all the things she so loved.

She will be singing like she did at Cure of Ars Church Choir, socializing like she did at AARP and with the Red Hats, travelling like she did at Harran Coachways, reading, playing cards, doing jigsaw puzzles and drinking wine to her hearts content.”

Tomaszewski joins her dear departed husband, Ted “Hon” Tomaszewski and many other family and friends “in that glorious place, dressed to the nines with all the accessories of a true fashionista and diva,” Patricia Tomaszewski added.

Tomaszewski also insisted that all left behind celebrate her life — especially with a glass of wine — as she will not accept anything less.

“Her contagious laughter, smile and stellar sense of humor and her wise sayings — commonly known as “Chippasisms” ‘— will be remembered always with joy,” said Patricia Tomaszewski. “Terri’s gifts as a nurturing and devoted mother, nana and grandmother will never be forgotten and forever live in our hearts.”

Donations may be made in Tomaszewski’s name to Community Hospice: CHCP/Foundation Department 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, Florida, 32257; online at www.communityhospice.com.

A memorial service will be held at Cure of Ars Roman Catholic Church in Merrick on Friday, July 21 from 9 to 10 a.m.