Theresa Ann Fretterd

Theresa Ann Fretterd, lovingly known as Terry, was a thoughtful, kind, and spirited Christian woman whose life was a shining example of purpose, service, and grace. Born on December 8, 1946, in Manhattan, New York, and passing away on September 12, 2026, in West Palm Beach, Florida, she lived a life that reminded everyone around her that a meaningful life is built one faithful day at a time. Terry carried herself with quiet strength, a warm heart, and a steady commitment to helping others become their best selves.

After graduating from Immaculate High School in Miami, Florida, Terry answered a call to service by joining the Sisters of St. Joseph of St. Augustine. Her path continued with determination and excellence when she graduated from Barry University in 1968 with a Masters in Education and furthered her education with a second Masters Degree in Counseling. She understood that education was not simply about earning degrees, but about preparing to make a difference. She embraced that calling with humility and conviction, and she spent her life using her gifts to lift others, guide them, and encourage them to grow in faith and in confidence.

Terry began her teaching career at Sacred Heart Catholic School in Lake Worth, Florida, where she taught from 1970 to 1974. She then left the order of the Sisters of St. Joseph to pursue an educational career at Cardinal Newman High School in West Palm Beach, beginning a remarkable 48-year legacy of service there. Over the decades, she served as a Religion teacher, Director of Guidance and Assistant Principal. In every role, she brought wisdom, compassion, and a deep belief in the potential of young people. She was the kind of educator who did more than teach lessons. She inspired character. She modeled integrity. She helped students discover that they were capable of more than they ever imagined.

Her work was not merely a career; it was a mission. She was appointed the first Victims’ Assistance Coordinator for the Diocese of Palm Beach in 2002 and served in that role for 15 years. She served on many different committees in the community including the Scholastic Achievement Committee for Palm Beach County, the Selective Service Board, and several Home & School Boards for Catholic elementary and high schools.

Terry made an impact that reached far beyond the classroom and into the lives of countless students, colleagues, and families. Her presence at Cardinal Newman became a source of stability, wisdom, and faith-filled dedication for nearly half a century.

Terry also knew how to live with joy. She loved to travel, and she embraced the beauty of discovering new places and making memories along the way. She cherished time spent with friends, and she valued the laughter, conversation, and companionship that made life richer. She enjoyed reading murder mysteries, always ready for a good story and a clever twist. She also enjoyed watching movies on Brit Box, finding pleasure in the simple moments that bring comfort and delight. Her interests reflected a life that was balanced, curious, and full of appreciation for both adventure and relaxation.

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Caroline Gaspirini of Ft. Myers, Florida. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Virginia Fretterd, and by her brothers Ray Gasparini, Charles Berardo, and Douglas Berardo.

Terry’s life will be celebrated at a Mass of Resurrection on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 11:00 am at Mary Immaculate Catholic Church, 390 S. Sequoia Drive, West Palm Beach. Rev. David W. Carr will be the principal celebrant. A reception will follow. Interment will take place at later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cardinal Newman High School, 512 Spencer Drive, West Palm Beach, FL 33409 in care of Mary Martens in grateful memory of Theresa Fretterd.

Those who knew Terry will remember her as someone who was thoughtful in her words, kind in her actions, and spirited in her approach to life. She encouraged others not only by what she said, but by how she lived. Her legacy is one of devotion, dedication, and love. She leaves behind a life that can inspire others to lead with compassion, to serve with purpose, and to live with gratitude. Her journey on earth has ended, but the example she set continues to speak with strength and grace.