Theresa Veronica Cefali

Teresa Veronica Cefali is lovingly known to all as Terri, went home to be with the Lord at the age of 93. She passed peacefully on September 4, 2026, at Emerson Health and Rehabilitation Center in Emerson, New Jersey.

Born on February 26, 1933, in Wallington, New Jersey, Terri was the cherished daughter of the late Joseph Drozd and Frances Drozd. She was also preceded in death by her devoted husband of 56 years, Joseph Cefali; her father in law Frank Cefali; mother in law Rosie Leone Cefali; her four brothers Bruno, Stanley, Edward, and Freddy; and her two sisters Helen and Josephine.

Terri spent over 15 years in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, where she proudly served her community as a school crossing guard. In 1987, she and Joe retired to Seville, New Jersey, beginning a beautiful new chapter together.

Their favorite pastime was simply being side by side—holding hands as they walked the beach and the boardwalk. Terri adored the ocean. She was an active member of Saint Maximillian Kolbe R.C. Church, volunteering as an usher and enjoying many wonderful activities with the mature adults’ club.

Family was Terri’s greatest joy. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Her holiday cooking, filled with love and tradition, will continue to be a treasured part of family gatherings for generations to come.

Survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Dave Cefali and Amy Cefali, son Richard Cefali and daughter-in-law, Marisa Picciotto Cefali, her four grandchildren, Nicholas J Cefali, George Chan, Gerry Chan, and his wife. Joyce Chan, and great-granddaughter, Chloe Chan; along with her beloved nieces, nephews and close friends.

A celebratory Mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 40 Spring Street, Lodi, New Jersey, on Monday September 21,2026 at 10:00AM

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in memory of Theresa Cefali at www.stjude.org/donate/memorials.