Teresa Costa Walker, known lovingly as Terry, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at the Chautauqua Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Dunkirk.
Teresa was born on February 16, 1940 in Marianopoli, Caltanisetta, Sicily. In 1947, she emigrated with her family and settled in Jamestown, where she grew up. She attended St. James School and worshipped at St. James Church, where she lent her voice to the church choir, a reflection of the deep and abiding faith that guided her throughout her life.
A woman of remarkable talent and determination, Teresa became a highly esteemed cosmetology teacher and the proud owner of several successful salons. Yet her greatest joys were found at home and among those she loved. She cherished her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She delighted in music, dancing, and cheering on her beloved Buffalo Bills.
Teresa was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Lowell James Walker, whom she missed tremendously; her brother, Ross Costa; and her sister, Stephanie Belforti. She is survived by her daughters, MaryAnn Walker Monaco (Louis) and Kerry Walker; her brothers, Phil Costa (Carol) and Johnny Costa; her sisters, Mary Deluca and Josephine Christopher; and her cherished grandchildren, Carley Carrara, Christina Izzo, Michael Damore, Sophia Vitello Fitzpatrick and Isabella Vitello Edwards.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 10 at 11:30 AM at the Brotherhood of St. Joseph Club, 50 Clinton Street in North East, PA.
We will miss her very much, but we take comfort in knowing she is dancing in heaven with our papa, whom she missed so dearly.
Arrangements are being handled by the R. Mackowiak Funeral Home, 56 East Doughty Street in Dunkirk.
