Theresa Gilburn “Teri”, 87, of Pompton Plains, formerly of Rutherford, passed away surrounded by her devoted family, Wednesday, July 19 ,2023. Theresa was born in Brooklyn NY to Charles and Nancy (nee Robusto) Forte. She was raised in Ozone Park Queens NY, lived in Lyndhurst NJ before purchasing Koelsch Bakery in Jersey City.  She successfully  built the family bakery business for 10 years while raising her daughters and serving as President of the PTA for both their elementary and high school years.  After graduation, Teri moved to Rutherford and enjoyed 35 years of vibrantly belonging to the community.       She changed industry and spent over 25 years as a travel agent for Merrill Lynch in New York City before retiring at age 72. Once retired, Teri again turned to the world of volunteering which she was passionate about.  She considered herself an Independent Civic and Social Organization Professional as listed on her Linkedin profile. Teri was a very active and outgoing woman.

She enthusiastically volunteered for many organizations and boards where she often assumed a leadership position. Teri served as Woman’s Club of Rutherford President, Secretary of the Rutherford  Board of Health and Vice Chair of the Historic Preservation commission of Rutherford.  Additionally, Teri was also proud to be a Rutherford Lions Club President, and enjoyed being a member of the Polymathic Club, the Garden Club and the Aesthetics Review Board. Teri had a green thumb and loved to garden at home. Since 2021, Teri was an active member of the Independent-living community of  Cedar Crest in Pompton Plans.  Teri continued to maintain a small beautiful garden on her patio. 

Devoted to her daughters and grandchildren, she equally cherished her long time friendships while continuing to make new friends along her journey. She will be forever remembered by those lucky enough to have had her in their lives, if even for a moment. Rest in peace, our Teri.

Teri is pre-deceased by her husband Thomas Gilburn (1995) and her brother Joseph Forte.

She is survived by loving daughters Laura Vazquez (husband Brian McCabe) and Susan Vella (husband Jim).

She has five grandchildren, Gabrielle (fiancé’ Charles), Nicholas, Laura Jane (husband Andres), Rob (wife Liz) James (wife Christen).

Her three great-grandchildren Emilia, Alejandro and Rudy affectionately refer to Teri as GGT. 

Family and friends will be received Sunday, July 23rd  from 11:00am to 3:00pm at Calhoun-Mania Funeral Home, 19 Lincoln Ave., Rutherford.

The Funeral service will be held on Monday, July 24th with a gathering 9:30am at Calhoun and 10:30am Mass of Christian Liturgy in the Church of Saint Mary, Rutherford.

Private cremation.