It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Theresa Joan Alvarez (nee Andrela). Theresa was born on April 6, 1934 in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, on Engert Avenue & North Henry Street, and was the last survivor of eight brothers and sisters - Josephine, Anna, Jean, Victor, George, Al, and Ray.
Theresa was seven years old when the U.S. entered World War II and watched her brothers go to Europe to fight. She graduated from Long Island City High School and was married at 19 to Fernando Alvarez. Together they raised six children at their home on 58th Road in Maspeth.
Theresa loved music, especially Tom Jones. Her kids would joke about it and imitate him dancing around the house. It was a happy home filled with the love and caring that Theresa dedicated her life to providing.
Theresa moved to Walton in 2011 and bought a home on Maple Street. Theresa was very involved in New Hope Community Church - she volunteered there and at Delaware Valley Hospital whenever possible.
Theresa loved to attend Bible studies and prayer groups. Her faith in Jesus and the church were her saving grace as she had to bear the loss of two of her sons (Freddy and Ray) who were taken far too soon. We are confident that Theresa is now sharing the eternal life promised in the bosom of her loving family who have gone before her and in the arms of her Savior, Jesus Christ.
Theresa is survived by her children Cynthia (Richie), Alex, Christina (Rich), and Russell; grandchildren Chuck, David, Daniel, Katharine, Vanessa, Jason, Ariel, Bethany, Max, Eli, Joanne, Nick, Brian, Logan, and Gabe; great-grandchildren Dawson, Jameson, Brody, Luca, Havana, Emery, Ezra, Nicholas, Lucy, and Theodore as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband Fernando, sons Ray and Frederick, and grandson Ray Jr.
Family and friends are invited to call Friday, Nov. 10, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at Courtney Funeral Home, 25 Townsend Street, Walton. Funeral services will be held Saturday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. at New Hope Community Church, 45 Stockton Avenue, Walton, with Pastor Larry Light, officiating. Burial will follow in Walton Cemetery, 55 Fancher Avenue, Walton.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions in Theresa’s memory/honor to be made to New Hope Community Church, 45 Stockton Avenue, Walton.
The family is in the care of Courtney Funeral Home, Walton. Condolences to the family may be made online at www.courtneyfh.com
