Terry Durnak Bresler

Ms. Terry Alice (Durnak) Bresler, a beloved educator adored by so many true friends, became an angel peacefully on April 12, 2026, in Birmingham, Alabama. Born July 6, 1950, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Terry lived a life dedicated to her two daughters and family, to education and the enrichment of those around her.

Terry graduated from West End High School in 1968 before attending the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, where she was a proud, active member of Delta Zeta (Alpha Gamma Chapter). Her passion for learning led her to pursue additional higher education, earning a Master of Arts in Secondary Education from the University of Alabama in Birmingham in 1992—a feat she accomplished while caring for her two young children. Born in Tuscaloosa, where her grandmother Alice thrived, Terry was destined to become a lifelong lover of football and a die-hard fan of Bear Bryant and her Crimson Tide. With 18 national championships to celebrate, "ROLL TIDE" must be roared here on Terry’s behalf.

In 1975, Terry began her career as "Mrs. Bresler," an English teacher at Pelham High School. Over the years, she became a beloved figure within the school community. Her warmth, wit, and genuine care for her students left an indelible mark on countless lives. Many former students credit her with playing a pivotal role and in their success, they continued to share their life milestones with her long after graduation—a testament to the profound impact she had.

Terry was also instrumental in shaping the traditions and activities that formed the keystone of student life at Pelham High. She and Margaret Bishop, her enduring close friend and colleague at Pelham High, drafted the PHS alma mater (it remains in place today) during one fun, festive night together. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to teaching English grammar, literature, and writing while fostering extracurriculars—sponsoring cheerleading squads and organizing memorable proms and homecomings. One of her proudest achievements was fostering the first journalism class at PHS and witnessing its vibrant growth during her tenure.

Her unwavering dedication to education and students earned her the awarding of PHS Teacher of the Year during the mid-1980s. Beyond accolades, her enduring relationships that she built with students and colleagues brought Terry the most joy. Many of her fellow teachers became her inseparable abiding friends.

Terry is survived by her two daughters, Gina Ann Bresler and Alix Taylor Bresler, both of Homewood, Alabama; sister, Gina Durnak Martini and brother-in-law, Nazzareno "Nino" Martini of Pensacola, Florida; cousin, Kay Strong Smith, Mobile, Alabama; cousins Rex Frohlich, Dallas Texas, and Joseph Sydney Frohlich, Durham, NC. Also surviving Terry are her “sisters of the heart” Kim Nall Harrison and Kim Erikson and her “brother of the heart” Lief Erikson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Rita Frohlich Durnak (2013) and John Paul Durnak Jr. (2016), who undoubtedly welcomed her to share in their eternal joy beside Jesus.

Terry's legacy as an educator, playful comedienne, and friend will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know and love her. May her memory bring comfort to those who cherished her dearly.

Memorial Service Details:

A Memorial Mass will be held on May 9, 2026, at Prince of Peace Catholic Church (4600 Preserve Parkway).

· 1:00 PM: Visitation with friends and family

· 2:00 PM: Celebratory Mass

· 3:00 PM: Repast gathering in the Prince of Peace Parish Hall