Theresa Escalona Russo

August 20, 1941 – May 6, 2026

Theresa “Teddi” Russo, 84, passed away peacefully the night of May 6, 2026, at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Hospice in North Carolina, comforted by her loving and devoted daughter Louise.

Theresa was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 36 years, Joseph Russo; her sister Rose Hopkins; brother-in-law, Joseph Hopkins ; Herbert Dreimann, her husband of 12 years; and her parents Louise and Fernando Escalona.

She is survived by her children, Louise Cooper and George Dreimann; her cherished grandchildren, Alyssa Torchio, Nicholas Torchio, William Dreimann and Kaitlyn Dreimann; her daughter-in-law, Carol Drennan, and two sons-in-law Gerard Torchio and Scott Cooper; and the very beloved cat Vincenzo.

She also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will miss her deeply.

Theresa grew up and spent most of her life in New York, where she built a life centered around family, tradition, and love.

In 1973 she became a single mother of two children and went to college which enabled her to acquire a wonderful and fulfilling job as an office manager for an endocrinologist for almost 30 years.

Throughout her life, she made multiple trips to Italy, the home place of her grandparents.

She later moved to Florida for a short time before settling in North Carolina to be near her children and grandchildren.

Love for family was her singular motivation which she expressed in countless ways - most notably through her cooking.

She would put the same amount of detail and care into cooking for her entire family or just a few grandchildren.

She had a beautiful ability to make every meal seem lavish.

Theresa will be remembered for her strength, perseverance, and unwavering love for her family.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

“Don’t forget to call when you get home”.

In lieu of flowers Please make a donation to Saint Jude’s children’s hospital in her name