Theresa Cornelia Fall

When I tried to start this reflection, I was overwhelmed with fond memories of my Aunt Theresa. She inspired in so many ways. But the most impactful was her ability to calmly deal with anything, with no judgement expressed, no elevated emotions. Yes, she was a "devout Catholic", but she was so much more than that in regard to her faith; she interacted with people in a manner that Christ Himself would praise. I have known anyone who "walked the walk" as well as Theresa. I'd also like to give a shoutout to Michael Costello who helped her so much in her later years. Somewhere in heaven there a fierce cribbage game going and she's winning!

Aunt Theresa was always a role model for me. I remember admiring her from a very young age. I have too many memories to count, including the many visits to see her and Nana in South Boston, Dorchester, and Wakefield. My family even went to visit her in the convent. I think that was in Pennsylvania somewhere. Once I got older and moved away from the Boston area the visits became less frequent, but every bit as memorable. When Raylene and I had our boys, we made sure that they got to know everyone´s favorite aunt as well. Every visit seemed to result in Aunt Theresa trying to give the boys some sort of gift, so, so generous! Eventually the trips were to Monson, a little closer for me. But then it was Brookline - oh, well.
Aunt Theresa always reminded me that she was twenty years older than me, one of her memories that never faded. I guess it was important to her. I didn´t need the reminder of my age, though.

On several occasions, I accompanied Aunt Theresa to the Saturday, 4 pm. Mass at St. Mary's. Although I was 33 years her junior, I was a "lazy" kneeler, resting my behind on the pew behind me. Not Theresa! Ramrod straight, Theresa looked like a Marine drill sergeant as she knelt with perfect posture, no matter the length of the prayer.