Theresa E. Giandonato

THERESA E. GIANDONATO (née Bertolino) 97, of Philadelphia, PA, entered into eternal rest on December 24, 2025.

Theresa was born to the late Madeline (née Dizenzo) and Alfred Bertolino in Philadelphia, where she was a lifelong resident and devoted member of St. Richard’s Parish. A 1946 graduate of South Philadelphia High School, she worked for many years as a hairdresser and later as a food and beverage supervisor at Veterans Stadium.

She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and a constant source of strength and encouragement to those who knew her. Known affectionately as “Terri” to friends and neighbors and “Mom Mom” to her family, she cherished time spent at the family shore house, trips to the casino, and hosting unforgettable holiday celebrations at her Packer Park home. A voracious reader and lifelong Philadelphia sports fan, she especially delighted in cheering on her beloved Eagles during their 2017 and 2024 Super Bowl championship runs.

In her later years, Theresa found great joy in visits from her great-granddaughters and in the companionship of her cherished cats, Holly and Pepper.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 58 years, Joseph A. Giandonato, Jr., her precious granddaughter Alissa Marie Giandonato, and her dear brother Alfred Bertolino, Jr.

She is survived by her daughter Rita Ann Giandonato; her son Joseph A. Giandonato III (Karen); her grandson Joseph A. Giandonato IV (Kelli); her two great-granddaughters Cameron and Emersyn; and many loving extended family members.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. at the Church of St. Richard, 3010 S. 18th Street, Philadelphia, PA, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. precisely.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Theresa’s memory to Rider University’s Presidential Hope Fund (https://www.rider.edu/presidential-hope-fund) or to a charity of the donor’s choice. In the coming months, a scholarship will be established in her name, honoring her lifelong commitment to helping others and her unfulfilled dream of pursuing higher education.

Arrangements under the direction of: Ronald Rex Piselli Funeral Chapels, Inc.