Theresa Stewart

Theresa Stewart, a cherished soul known for her warmth, humor, and unwavering dedication to family and community, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026, at Helene Fuld Medical Center. Born on May 22, 1935, in Larksville, Pennsylvania, Theresa was a beacon of light to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her 91 years were filled with love, laughter, and an enduring legacy of kindness. The beloved daughter of Michael and Helen Palischak, Theresa was the youngest sister in a vibrant and close-knit family. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Donald Stewart, and her siblings John, Michael, Thomas, George, Paul, Frank, and Helen. Her memory will forever be cherished by her surviving brothers, Joseph and Anthony Palischak, along with sisters-in-law Alice and Elaine Palischak, and numerous nieces and nephews. Theresa's greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Karen Stewart-Sare, and her adoring grandchildren, Mariah Julia Sare and Daniel James Sare, who were the light of her life. She also leaves behind her son-in-law, George Sare, and cherished family friend, Marta Sare. Theresa's family was her pride, and her home was always filled with love, stories, and the comforting aroma of her baked goods. A proud graduate of Larksville High School's Class of 1953, Theresa embarked on a remarkable 44-year career, beginning at the Western Union Telegraph Company, where she worked for 32 years. She later contributed her skills to the New Jersey National Bank and the Princeton University Chemistry Department. Her dedication and work ethic earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and community. Theresa was an active member of numerous organizations, including the Retired Western Union Employees Association, North Branch Land Trust of Pennsylvania, Washington Crossing Postcard Collector’s Club, Incarnation-Saint James Rosary Altar Society, and the Ewing Township Historical Preservation Society. She was a woman of varied interests, known for her love of music, storytelling, gardening, and her fondness for crossword puzzles. Theresa cherished her regular visits to Long Beach Island, New Jersey, a place where she created precious summer memories with her family. Her spirit will be celebrated with a service on July 29, 2026, at 10:00 AM, at the Incarnation-Saint James Parish, located at 1555 Pennington Road in Ewing, New Jersey. Friends and family are invited to gather to honor a life well-lived and to share in the joy and laughter that Theresa brought into the world. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Theresa's memory to the North Branch Land Trust of Pennsylvania, an organization close to her heart. Theresa Stewart's legacy is one of love, laughter, and a profound generosity of spirit. She leaves behind a world made better by her presence, and she will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.