Theresa Anne Freeman (Terry), 75, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, "schemes," and a legendary radiant smile.
A native of
Stoneham, Massachusetts, Terry was one of eight children who famously crowned herself "Queen" of the family. Her childhood escapades became the foundation of the vivid stories she told her own children-tales that always managed to highlight the best qualities of her parents and siblings, even when mischief was involved.
A lifelong educator, Terry had a unique gift for connecting with students who needed grace the most. While she often joked about her lack of artistic skill, she was a visionary of creativity, recruiting others to help bring her imaginative teaching projects to life.
Terry "never met a stranger." Whether through her "gift of gab," her prolific letter-writing, or her signature facial expressions that said everything words couldn't, she stayed connected to friends across the globe. She was happiest when a long walk could be paired with a long conversation, always pausing to point out the beauty in the quiet details of the world.
Terry was known for her "Terryisms," her quick wit, and a home that was always open for a cup of tea and a chat. She was a master communicator who maintained decades-long friendships through hand-written cards and marathon phone calls. If you walked with Terry, you didn't just get exercise; you got a guided tour of the "interesting things" the rest of us often miss.
A dedicated teacher and a devoted mother, Terry's heart belonged to her grandchildren. She was their biggest fan, attending every event with pride and dreaming up elaborate holiday decorations to ensure every milestone felt like magic.
Terry is reunited with her beloved husband, Michael Freeman; her parents, J. Joseph and Theresa Meegan; and her siblings, Kathleen Goodhue, Thomas Meegan, and Elizabeth Martelli.
She is survived by her daughters, Suzanne Scott (Jason) and Kimberly Chapman (Richard); her cherished grandchildren, Hunter, Sierra, and Liesel "Elsie"; her siblings, Robert (Janet) Meegan, Helen Meegan, Maryellen Meegan, and Rose (Neil) Lerer; and a large circle of beloved nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be on Tuesday April 21. 2026 5:00pm to 7:00pm at James A. Dyal Funeral Home 303 S. Main Street
Summerville, SCCelebration of life service will be on Wednesday April 22, 2026 11:00 am at St. John the Beloved Roman Catholic Church 28 Sumter Avenue
Summerville, SC 29483.
Interment will be at Plantation Memorial Gardens 3345 S. Live Oak Drive
Moncks Corner, SC 29461.
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Charleston Post & Courier on Apr. 18, 2026.