Theresa M. Gagnon

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Theresa Mary Gagnon who left this world peacefully on February 3rd at the age of 90. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, wife, sister, aunt, neighbor, and friend, Theresa’s life was one of love, laughter, resilience, and faith.

A longtime resident of East Sandwich, Theresa found beauty in the simple joys of life—tending to her garden and cherishing every moment with her family who were the center of her world. She was fiercely independent, always carrying herself with grace and determination, yet her warmth and kindness made everyone feel at home. Whether down “the pond “ swimming with her famous flowered bathing cap, enjoying a day at Sandy Neck beach, in her kitchen making her famous spaghetti and meatballs, or in her yard tending to her vibrant tomato garden while listening to the birds, Terry found joy in her everyday surroundings.

Theresa always kept busy. With a passion for gardening, a love of dancing, and her iconic exercise and chair yoga classes, she was never still. She loved playing cards and her infectious laughter could always be heard while playing Whist with her family. She enjoyed going to the family property in Maine, huddling around the fire in rain or snow. A lifelong learner, she became interested in Wall Street and was known to provide solid advice on the best stocks to buy. Throughout her life she remained fiercely independent, living in her home and driving herself to her beloved senior center or out for coffee where she enjoyed spending time with her many friends.

Theresa Mary Maksymik was born on June 15 to Mary and Wasil of Lancaster, NY, and was raised in a close-knit Ukrainian community. Theresa’s early years were spent in Albany, NY. where she graduated from Albany High School, then attended secretarial school quickly landing a job at the telephone company.

Her love story began when she met her future husband, David Gagnon, during an adventurous weekend vacation at Myrtle Beach, and they enjoyed a 55-year journey together filled with love, laughter, and family. Terry and Dave navigated the ups and downs of life and always remained devoted to each other.

As a mother, Theresa gave her all. She is survived by her loving family including her children: Lisa Gagnon of Wayland; Christina Gagnon of Sandwich; Karen Gagnon Wuerfl and her husband, Christopher, of Wayland; and Matt Gagnon and his wife, Mary, of East Sandwich. She was predeceased by her children, Danny and Jennifer Gagnon, her husband of 55 years, David Gagnon, and her treasured sister, Helen.

She was the proud grandmother of seven: John Gagnon of Sandwich, Allie Wuerfl Curtin of Waltham, Rebecca Wuerfl of South Boston, Jack Wuerfl of Wayland, Luke Gagnon of Somerville, and Nicholas and Thomas Gagnon of East Sandwich. Terry was also the proud great-grandmother of Paytton and Piper Gagnon and Shelby Curtin. In addition, she shared a special bond with her extended family from Michigan and Texas treasuring their visits to her home.

A wake will be held at the Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Hom e at 154 Rt. 6A in Sandwich on Tuesday, February 18th from 4-7PM. A Christian Mass of Burial to honor Theresa’s life will be held at Corpus Christi Parish in East Sandwich, MA on February 19th at 11AM, followed by burial at the National Cemetery in Bourne at 12:45PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Special Olympics.

A woman of deep faith, Terry’s warmth, joy, and love of life will live on in the many happy memories of all who knew her.

Rest in peace, Mom. You are our Rock.