Terry Wendell Tedesco was called to be with Our Lord on the afternoon of Friday, November 8, 2024, surrounded by his devoted family. Terry is preceded by his parents Lucille Heid Tedesco and Chavrio “Ted” Joseph Tedesco; parents-in-law Muriel Clancy Papania and Joseph Vincent Papania, Sr., and brother-in-law Joseph “JV” Vincent Papania, Jr. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Daryl Papania Tedesco; his sister Susan Tedesco Ross (George A. Williams); sister-in-law Linda Bayola Papania, his children Todd Joseph Tedesco (Kimberly), Tara Jody Tedesco (John McQueen) and Trent Nicholas Tedesco (Annelise); grandchildren: Preston Tedesco, Ross Tedesco (Ashley Westerman), Annie Taffaro, Alexander Tedesco, Peyton McQueen and Lauren McQueen; great-grandson Lucas Tedesco; nephews Rusty Russo and Jino Papania; niece Lisa Mackles and many loving great-nieces, nephews and cousins. Terry -- a visionary force in the world of construction -- left an indelible mark on St. Bernard Parish.
Terry's journey began alongside his father Ted and sister Susan in the family business of building homes. With an entrepreneurial spirit, he later branched out on his own, establishing a thriving family business with his wife Daryl and three children, Todd, Tara and Trent. Terry's legacy is etched into the landscape of the parish through his many endeavors—homes, subdivisions, and commercial developments that stand as testament to his dedication and craftsmanship. Among his notable projects are Deer Creek Estates, South Lake Estates, Terry Drive and the hosting of the Battle of New Orleans reenactment at The Woodlands. After Hurricane Katrina, Terry and his family were committed to the rebuilding process of St. Bernard Parish. The efforts of Terry Tedesco Home Builders helped many families return to their homes and community.
Terry loved to travel and spend time with his wife and family. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed bringing his friends and family together to share in his adventures, always highlighted with his gifted storytelling. For many years, he pursued his passion of deer hunting with his longtime friend and colleague, Andre’ LeBlanc, and good friend, Nolan LeBlanc. Terry was a man of faith and courage. He lived life challenging his limits and helping others do the same. He lived out these principles in every aspect of his life and continued exhibiting them in his valiant fight with Parkinson’s. Though his fight is over, even in his passing he urges others afflicted to continue in the good fight. To help fulfill Terry’s final request, his family asks that, in lieu of flowers; contributions in Terry's memory be made to Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson's, care of Louisiana Walks for Parkinson's, P.O. Box 270948, Louisville, CO 80027. Terry’s life will be celebrated with a Visitation at 11 a.m. and Funeral Mass at 1 p.m. to be held on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, 2320 Paris Rd., in Chalmette. Interment: St. Bernard Memorial Gardens, Chalmette, La. Following interment, a reception will follow at his daughter’s residence.