Theresa Petrilli

Theresa Louise Petrilli (Festa) of Winthrop formerly of Revere passed away on March 18, 2025, at home surrounded by her loving family at the age of 97. Born on February 28, 1928, to the late James Festa and Louise (Ladere). She was the beloved wife of the late Alberto M. Petrilli.

Theresa was a woman who found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was taking an occasional trip to the casino, indulging in scratch tickets, or the cherished tradition of trying on her wedding dress every anniversary. She crafted beautiful crochet Afghans, each stitch woven with love, which will continue to provide warmth and comfort to her loved ones. Theresa's love for cooking and the joy she found in sharing meals with company made her home a sanctuary for all who entered. Her kitchen was the heart of many family gatherings. If you said no to a meal, you may just get a small portion but if you said yes to a dish, you would not only receive a hearty serving but also a new meal to try. Her affection was in every recipe, each dish a symbol of her unwavering love and care. She was renowned for her delicious Christmas cookies, Easter bread, and pizzagaina, a tradition that was eagerly anticipated by all. Her culinary skills were a testament to her Italian heritage and a gift she enjoyed sharing with those cared for. Theresa made everyone feel loved, valued, and above all, like family. Her funny, loving, and witty nature was also brilliantly displayed in her long-standing career at Stop & Shop. For over 30 years, she graced the aisles, touching the hearts of coworkers and customers alike with her passion for service and her enchanting personality.

Her commitment to her family was unparalleled. Theresa was a devoted mother to Al Petrilli and his partner Heather Clucas of Winthrop, and David Petrilli and his wife Kathy of Saugus. Cherished grandmother of Albert Petrilli and his wife Rachel of Winthrop, Marielle Petrilli and her fiancé Nick Russo of Burlington, and Olivia Petrilli of Saugus. Adored great grandmother of Adelyn and Ava of Winthrop. Theresa is preceded in death by her daughter in law Marie C. Petrilli, and her siblings Florence Penachio, Louise Milano, Helen Toto, Mary Melchiono, Gerard Malio, Joseph Malio, William Malio, Anthony Festa, and Joseph Festa. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and friends she loved to be with.

Funeral from the Paul Buonfiglio & Sons Funeral Home 128 Revere St, Revere on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 8:45am. Funeral Mass at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Revere at 10:00am. Relatives and friends are kindly invited. A Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1:00pm to 7:00pm at the funeral home. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Marie C. Petrilli cancer fund, 11 Nahant Ave, Winthrop, MA 02152, or Venmo Albert Petrilli @mariecpetrillicancerfund.

We invite you to share your favorite memories, anecdotes, and photographs of Theresa on her memorial page at www.buonfiglio.com. Your reflections on her life and her impact on yours will serve as a comforting tribute to a life well-lived. Theresa may no longer be physically with us, but her spirit, her love, and her laughter will forever echo in our hearts.