Obituary of Theresa M. Smedile-Lipeles

Theresa M. Smedile-Lipeles (nee Briglia), age 84 of Cherry Hill, passed away on January 26, 2021 at the Terraces at Parke Place in Sewell, New Jersey. She is the beloved mother of Joseph Smedile, William Smedile, Maria (Roy) Canzanese and Terri (Marie) Smedile; Loving Mom-Mom of Dante, Stephen, Nicole, Noelle and Lauren. Born in Philadelphia on August 3, 1936 to Dr. William and Mary Briglia. Although she was an only child, Theresa lived in a household filled with love from not only her parents, but also her grandparents Briglia, Uncles Dr. Frank Briglia, Dr. Charles Briglia, and Dr. Nicholas Briglia, and Aunts Katherine Briglia and Mary Egitto. She graduated from Hallahan High School and then went off to create her own beautiful family, whom she cherished so much, living first in Southwest Philadelphia and then moving to Cherry Hill, NJ, where she lived out the rest of her life. Our mother was not only a loving, kind and devoted Mom but also an amazing and loyal friend, especially to "Aunt" Anna DiGiovanni, who she met at the age of 10. They were the original "sister from another mister," with 74 years of a loving and loyal friendship. Theresa, aka Terri, had such a big heart. Everyone she met was always invited to the house for lavish Italian dinners, especially on holidays, where our dining room table was filled with family and friends. It looked like the League of Nations! And who could ever forget her famous stromboli! Mom's love for people led her to a career in sales. She could always close a deal because she was so charismatic, warm hearted and had the most beautiful smile that would light up a room. Anyone who knew Theresa knew she had the most infectious laugh. She loved shopping and strolling the mall and had a great eye for fashion. She loved makeup, jewelry, handbags, and her furs. Theresa wouldn't be caught without her hair and nails done and only ever wore high heels, even when walking on the Atlantic City and Wildwood Boardwalks, where our family spent many summers. Because of her belief in the afterlife, she always enjoyed talking to a good psychic. She was an avid reader, a loving, silly, warm and generous Mom-Mom, and counselor to many friends. Theresa was strong willed and stood up for what she believed in, always doing the right thing even when it was hard. Our mother taught us many life lessons - too many to list! Mom, you lived a beautiful and blessed life, even in times of adversity. Our hearts are comforted knowing you are finally home with God and many friends and family, celebrating eternal life. We will keep your legacy alive and you will live in our hearts until we meet again. We love you, Mom! Due to current Covid restrictions, all services are being handled privately. Please consider making a donation in her memory to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.