Teresa Morgillo

Teresa Morgillo (nee Perrotta), born in San Felice a Cancello, Campagna, Italy, passed away at the age of 95 on December 20, 2024. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, she leaves behind a legacy of love, education, and community service that will resonate for generations to come.

The eldest of eight siblings, Teresa was dedicated to her family from a young age. She immigrated to the United States at the age of 18 to further her education, ultimately earning a Master's Degree from New York University. She married her husband, who had followed her from Italy, in 1953, and settled in Hudson, and then Bergen Counties where they raised their children. She dedicated her life to teaching, sharing her passion for biology with high school students as a valued member of the NYC Board of Education until her retirement.

Teresa was deeply involved in her community. She served for 15 years on the Fort Lee Board of Health and held leadership roles as a former president of both the Fort Lee Ladies Unico and the Leonardo Da Vinci Society. Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom; she organized numerous enriching programs for the organizations she belonged to, garnering the appreciation of many for her dedication to cultural and educational outreach.

In her later years, Teresa and her husband cherished their travels around the globe, immersing themselves in different cultures and landscapes, from the breathtaking glaciers of Alaska to the historic cities of Europe. She returned many times to Italy and her hometown. Even as their journeys became more challenging, wintering in their Florida beach condo brought them joy, allowing them to maintain close ties with family, especially her sister Raffaela, who purchased a nearby complex.

Teresa's love for children extended beyond her own family; she embraced every child that crossed her path, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of her students and neighborhood children alike. Her zest for life and cultural pursuits, including a love for opera, Broadway shows, and museums, instilled a sense of appreciation for the arts in those around her.

Teresa is survived by her devoted daughter, Carmen; cherished grandchildren, Danielle and Christopher; beloved great-grandchildren, Oliver and Theodore; as well as her dear siblings, Raffaela in Venezuela, and Paolina & Assunta in Italy, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and sister-in-law Margot. She is predeceased by her cherished husband Alfonso, two loving children Doreen & Joann, many treasured siblings, and dear friends, all of whom she loved dearly.

A celebration of Teresa's remarkable life will take place in the coming days. Family and friends are encouraged to gather Thursday, January 3rd, from 3-7 PM at the Hunt-Stellato Funeral Home, 1601 Palisade Ave, Fort Lee. Funeral Mass Saturday 11 AM Madonna Church on the Hill. Cremation private.

Her family invites all those whose lives were touched by Teresa to join them in remembrance and reflection, where stories of her vibrancy, warmth, and unwavering determination will be shared. Teresa Morgillo will be profoundly missed, but her love will forever remain in the hearts of her family and community.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Museum of Natural History.