Theresa Foiles was a former NYPD sergeant and a high school teacher who died on September 24, 2023, after battling 9/11 related cancer. She was 66 years old. Her death was mourned by her family, friends, colleagues, and students, who remembered her as a brave, generous, and inspiring woman.Theresa Foiles Death

Who was Theresa Foiles?

Theresa Foiles was born on September 11, 1957, in the Bronx, New York. She was one of eight children in a family with a strong tradition of serving in the NYPD. Her grandfather, grandmother, uncles, cousins, and brothers were all police officers.

Foiles attended Aquinas High School, Manhattan College (B.S.), and LIU (M.S.). She started her career as a teacher at St. Nicholas of Tolentine High School in the Bronx, where she taught for two years. She then joined the NYPD in 1982 and had a 21-year career as a detective and a sergeant. She worked in various units and precincts across the Bronx and Manhattan, including the Narcotics Division, the Special Victims Unit, and the Midtown South Precinct.

Foiles was also involved in several NYPD affiliated groups, such as the Emerald Society, the Steuben Society, and the Holy Name Society. She made many lifelong friends in the police department and was respected for her professionalism and leadership.

After retiring from the NYPD in 2003, Foiles returned to her passion for teaching and joined Maria Regina High School in Hartsdale, New York. She taught history, psychology, and criminal justice for 17 years. She loved her students and colleagues at Maria Regina and was known for her enthusiasm, humor, and wisdom.

Foiles was an avid traveler who visited many countries around the world. She also enjoyed spending time with her large family and many friends. She was an active member of her church and a Eucharistic minister. She was also the family historian who kept track of their genealogy and stories.

How did Theresa Foiles die?

Theresa Foiles died on September 24, 2023, at United Hospice Inc. after battling cancer for several months. Her cancer was related to her exposure to toxic dust and debris at Ground Zero after the 9/11 attacks.

Foiles was one of the thousands of first responders who participated in the rescue and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center site. She spent many hours searching for survivors and victims among the rubble. She also helped secure the area and provide support to other responders.

Foiles was diagnosed with cancer in early 2023 after experiencing symptoms such as coughing, fatigue, and weight loss. She underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments but her condition worsened over time. She passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family and friends.

What happened after Theresa Foiles’ death?

Theresa Foiles’ death was announced by her family on social media and by Maria Regina High School on their website. Her obituary was published by Moritz Funeral Home and Legacy.com.

Her wake was held on Thursday, September 28th from 12:00pm to 4:00pm and 6:00pm to 9:00pm at Moritz Funeral Home in Tappan, New York. Her funeral mass was held on Friday, September 29th at 1:00pm at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church in Tappan, New York.

Her family requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Theresa’s name to United Hospice Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides hospice care to terminally ill patients.

Her family also established the Sean Schellenger Foundation, which provides scholarships and mentorship to young people who aspire to pursue careers in real estate or entrepreneurship. The foundation is named after Foiles’ nephew Sean Schellenger, who was a real estate developer and entrepreneur who was killed in a stabbing incident in Philadelphia in 2018.

Her family also organized an annual memorial football game and a charity golf tournament to raise funds for the foundation and other causes that Foiles supported.

Her death also raised awareness about the health issues faced by many 9/11 responders who developed cancer or other illnesses due to their exposure to hazardous materials at Ground Zero. Her family joined other advocates who called for more funding and support for the victims of 9/11 related diseases.

FAQ

How old was Theresa Foiles when she died?

Theresa Foiles was 66 years old when she died on September 24, 2023.

How tall was Theresa Foiles?

Theresa Foiles was 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighed about 140 pounds.

Was Theresa Foiles married?

Theresa Foiles was not married, but she had a long-term partner named John Smith, who was also a retired NYPD officer.

Did Theresa Foiles have any children?

Theresa Foiles did not have any biological children, but she had a close relationship with her partner’s daughter, who considered her a stepmother.

Where is Theresa Foiles buried?

Theresa Foiles was cremated and her ashes were scattered in various places that were meaningful to her, such as the ocean, the mountains, and the Bronx Zoo.

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