Teresa E. Clark

“A road is an endless voyage.”—T.E.P.

Teresa E. Clark (née Piemonte) believed in helping people—always. She used her writing talents to serve vulnerable individuals during a career spanning more than three decades. After earning a bachelor's degree in journalism from Roosevelt University, she became an award-winning local newspaper reporter before moving on to national magazines and global digital media. She ultimately felt the calling to become a communications manager in the faith-based sector, a place where she felt she could do the most good.

Teresa devoted herself to raising awareness about Reye’s Syndrome, an aspirin-linked disease that took her sister Tina’s life. These efforts prompted changes in drug-company policy and federal regulations.

She earned second-degree (or Okuden) status in Reiki, an energy-healing technique.

A country-music fan, Teresa also listened to Michael Bublé and Kelly Clarkson. She enjoyed grabbing a ginger ale and a snack while watching America’s Got Talent, The Voice or American Idol. Lifetime thrillers and Hallmark Channel romcoms were must-sees.

She had fun hitting flea markets and running her Vintisa (vintage + Teresa) side hustle in which she refurbished and resold antiques and curios. Collecting angels, hearts and all-things artichoke were passions. Her childhood idol—curly-top Shirley Temple—was a hairdo role model.

Teresa was known at family events for preparing a proprietary-recipe olive salad handed down by her Aunt Gloria. She’d readily admit to a weakness for chocolate and the occasional stop at the Portillo’s drive-through window. Mango smoothies and Thai cuisine also were favorites. Friends, family and even colleagues repeatedly use one word—“sweet”—to describe Teresa. She especially loved her dogs: AJ & Gus.

Beloved wife of Gerry Clark. Devoted daughter of the late George and late Marianne (née McFadden) Piemonte. Daughter-in-law of Gerald F. and Linda Clark. Loyal sister and sister-in-law to Robert (Birgit) Piemonte, Paul Piemonte, Laura Nicolini, Beth (Kip) Walker, Deanna (Scott) Taylor, Tony (Kelly) Piemonte, Joanne Piemonte, Karol (Bob) Leon, Roberta (Michael) Podobinski, George (Linda) Piemonte and Jennifer Anzelmo. She was preceded in death by sisters Gail (Ronald) Salerno and Tina Piemonte. Affectionate aunt to many nieces and nephews: Taylor Anzelmo; Nick Caruso; Matthew, Leah, Anthony, Andrew & Jonathan (Nicolini); Ryan, Dominic, Sophia & Lily (Piemonte); Jeremy, Joshua, Colin & Keegan (Taylor); Parker Thompsen; and Austin & Kylie (Walker). She also was surrounded by caring cousins, aunts and uncles throughout her life.

In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to the National Reye’s Syndrome Foundation.