I met Teresa in October of 1994 and we became friends instantly.  It may have been the Irish heritage we shared with names like Gallagher, Gillespie, Flynn, McLoughlin, O’Brien to name a few. Her stories of growing up in Brooklyn reminded me of my Mom’s very similar ones from the Bronx.  Many of Teresa’s expressions and Irish idioms reminded me of my grandparents who were born and raised in Ireland and this was very comforting for me.  Teresa had a calming effect on me and could always make me laugh.  She was there for me and helped me through some of my darkest days and greatest losses.  Teresa constantly reminded me that nothing was ever too good for her “La Liz”.   

Our families became close spending vacations together, enjoying neighborhood barbeques, impromptu visits, pool parties and  endless spectacular fireworks!  We were so blessed to have a loyal group of lifelong friends, as close as family, who we could count on for anything.  This gift was truly a Blessing!

Jes and Tara became friends at three and have been best friends since.  Tara was the sister Jes never had.   To Teresa Jes was “Gessica”. Tara had a second home at 39 Eric Trail and Jes at 34 Eric Trail.  Teresa was happy to put Jes to work and Jes was thrilled to be part of any project at the Wentzell house. Our wonderful memories are endless!

Teresa brightened a room simply by entering.  She was truly a lady!  Teresa always had a kind word to say about everyone.  She was a Fabulous Mom, Wife, Granny, Sister, Aunt and Friend.  Teresa had a special place in her heart for my Anthony.  She was one of his biggest fans!  Jes and Anthony loved Teresa and could go to her for anything.

Teresa and I shared our strong Faith in God and loved being a part of St. Francis since we all moved to Vernon.  I loved listening to Teresa sing.  It is a gift God gave to the entire Wentzell family.  Teresa made it clear that God skipped over me when handing out singing voices, as she sat next to me in Mass.  Teresa was happy to sing “A Mother’s Love” with my Mom at her surprise party in 2000.  She sang “The Irish Wedding Song” in 2010 when I married Scot, the love of my life and my soulmate.  She continued to sing “Hey There You with the Stars in Your Eyes” every time she saw me, which began when I met Scot.  Teresa bid my Mom a Graceful farewell with “The County of Armagh” in 2015.  Her voice was that of a beautiful songbird! 

One of my greatest gifts was my last conversation with Teresa.  We laughed and laughed, making grand plans for our time after Teresa recovered.  God had other plans for Teresa, as He Only Takes the Best!  I was able to hold her hand and tell her I love her before God called her Home.

I will not say Goodbye my Beautiful Friend, I will say Until We Meet Again!

Love with all my Heart,

Liz