Theresa Szwaja, 64, passed away on August 19, 2026. Born on October 5, 1961, she was born in New Bedford and lived most of her life in Acushnet. She was the daughter of the late Mieczyslaw “Mike” Szwaja and the late Clara “Jackie” (Mosakowski) Szwaja.
Her friendships, including those formed with her friends at Better Care Living Group Home, were a meaningful part of her days and a testament to the connection she valued.
Theresa was preceded in death by her brothers, Randolph “Randy” Szwaja and Steven “Stevie” Szwaja. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Marcella (Salhus) Szwaja; her nieces, Julie Szwaja and her husband, Javier Santiago, Marcella A. Szwaja, and Cheryl Szwaja and her husband, Dominic Ambrosi; her great niece and nephews, Nathaniel, Caitlyn, and Jacob Santiago; and several cousins.
Theresa found genuine joy in the simple pleasures that made life bright. She loved music—especially Frank Sinatra and Tom Jones—and enjoyed dining out, watching old movies, and spending time with classic television shows, including The Golden Girls and Star Trek. She also delighted in creating arts and crafts, playing Bingo, and attending her monthly dances. Those who knew her will remember her love of singing, and the personal style she carried so happily—often completed with her beloved beaded necklaces.
Visiting hours will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026 from 5:00-7:00 pm at the Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford. Her Funeral will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 8:30 am with a Funeral Service at 9:30 am followed by burial in Sacred Heart Cemetery.
Flowers are welcome or donations in her memory can be made to the National Down Syndrome Society, 1155 15th Street NW, Suite 540, Washington, DC 20005 or online www.ndss.org
For online tributes, please visit: www.rock-funeralhome.com
