Theresa Benedetta Povinelli

Theresa Bendetta Povinelli was a faithful wife, mother, aunt (Zia), sister, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great grandmother who passed away peacefully at home at the age of 105. She and her late husband, Joseph (deceased in 2004), were devoted to each other for 56 years meeting in northern Italy in the town of Pinzolo, then moving to Michigan to raise their family.

Together they lovingly raised three children, Rita (the late Dominic) Guzzardo, Carl (Deborah) Povinelli, and Richard (Suzanne) Povinelli. Theresa adored her 7 grandchildren, Michael, Jeffrey, Elizabeth, Christopher, Holli, Staci and Dominick and was blessed with 17 great grandchildren (Dylan, Emily, Charlotte, Milo, Andrew, Grace, Joshua, Abigail, Faith, Matthew, Isaac, Caleb, Keenan, Rowan, Mya, Vito and Nikolas) and 1 great-great grandchild (Isabella), along with her numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Theresa lived a very rich life measured in the love she endlessly shared with her family, friends and her love for Jesus Christ. She had a natural gift for nurturing her family and welcoming anyone she met to her warm and comfortable home making sure no one was left with an empty stomach. Theresa was an unbelievable chef making Northern Italian specialty meals and desserts with the ability to make even the simplest soup taste gourmet. Theresa also lovingly nurtured her garden of flowers and vegetables, harvesting bushels of food to share with all the family, friends and neighbors.

While she lived a simple life, she left a huge legacy and imprint on all our lives. Theresa’s kindness and gentleness touched everyone who knew her. We celebrate a beautiful life, filled with cherished moments that will remain in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Instate will be held Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at St Joan of Arc Parish, 22412 Overlake Drive at 9:00AM until the time of service at 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers and considering Theresa’s pure joy of children at any age, please consider donating in Theresa’s honor to the following: PreBorn! https://give.preborn.com/ compassion for women in early pregnancy with tangible support to welcome a baby while sharing the hope of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Please note: The PreBorn! donation form asks for recipient name, you may list Richard Povinelli with email of [email protected], who will receive an acknowledgement of your gift to PreBorn! in memory of Theresa Povinelli.