Maria Teresa "Terry" Benivegna

Terry was born September 27, 1944 in Chicago, IL to Angelo and Catherine (Gagliano) Narcisi. They both preceded her in death.

She married Vito Benivegna on June 25, 1966 in Chicago, IL; together they shared nearly 58 years of marriage. Vito survives and resides in Swansea, IL.

Also surviving are her two children, Andrea (Larry) Smith of Swansea, IL and Mike (Shari) Benivegna of Washington, IL; her beloved grandchildren, Nick and Katie Smith, both of Swansea, IL and Joey and Allie Benivegna of Washington, IL; and one brother, John (Marie) Mauri of Elk Grove Village, IL.

Terry was a devoted Spanish teacher with Belleville East High School for 20 years; retiring in 2004. She served as a chairperson of Foreign Language, Art, and Music. Her ways of teaching and heart for her students undoubtedly left lasting impressions, many calling her the best teacher they've ever had.

Terry was an avid Illini fan, her Alma Mater. She was also a die-hard Cubs fan, often trying to recruit others to root for her favorite teams.

She played trivia locally with her trivia family, and together, they were often winners of trivia evenings and had the best of times. She also loved her IL Divo lunch group and the countless meals and times shared together.

Vito and Terry loved to travel all over the world, but their fondest times were made in Italy, especially Rome and Sicily. They felt surrounded by their Italian heritage while visiting and sightseeing, which left them countless memories to share with others through the years.

Above all else, Terry was a devoted and dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. Years ago, she loved to watch her son, Mike, play tennis and hear her daughter, Andrea, on the piano at her recitals. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy and her love for them will never be forgotten.

A visitation for Terry will be held on Monday, March 18, 2024 from 4:00 P.M.- 7:00 P.M. at Lake View Funeral Home, Fairview Heights, IL.

A funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 10:00 A.M. at Cathedral of Saint Peter in Belleville, IL. Cremation rites will follow services with final interment at Lake View Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights, IL at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Terry’s memory.