Teresa Phylis Orlik, 75, passed away on May 15, 2020. Loving wife of nearly 53 years to Frank Joseph Orlik. Devoted mother to, Frank John, Philip Vincent and Thomas Stephen. Beloved Grandmother of Zachary, Genna, Olivia, Matthew and Andrew.
Teresa was born on August 7, 1944 to Frank and Helen DiStefano in Queens, New York. She was the first in her family to attend and graduate from college. Eventually, she earned a Master's degree in education from City College of New York and went on to become an English teacher at Newtown High School. Subsequently she became Adjunct Professor of English at Dowling College and Suffolk Community College. Teresa held a lifelong love of learning and instilled in her children and grandchildren, and nephews the value of an education. While raising her family, Teresa, completed her second master's course of study in Italian Literature at SUNY Stony Brook. Although she obtained the title of Professor, the role in which she truly excelled was Mother. In addition to her sons and grandchildren, she was devoted to and helped raise nephews Nicholas, Justin, and Matthew. She loved and nurtured all who crossed her path. If she could help you in any way, shape or form she would do whatever she could always being your greatest cheerleader, giving you words of encouragement all along the way.
In addition to her husband Frank and children, she is survived by her brother Dr. John DiStefano, his wife Patricia, and her nephew Alexander.
Teresa was a devout Roman Catholic and one of her greatest loves was being a lector for many years at Saints Philip & James RC Church prior to her move to Florida for retirement and medical care at the Mayo Clinic. At a later time Teresa's family will hold a memorial service so that all whose lives’ she touched may celebrate her.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that a donation to the National Kidney Fund (https://www.kidneyfund.org/) be made in her name.
To send flowers
to the family, please visit our floral store.