It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Esther C. Demeo (Tejeiro) of Needham, who left us peacefully on Sunday, September 27, 2026, after a brief illness, having bravely battled Alzheimer's for the past two years. Esther was 96 years old, a remarkable woman whose life was filled with love, grace, and unwavering support for her family.
Born in the spring of 1930, Esther graduated with an associate’s degree from Burdett College, where she excelled in typing and mastered the practical skills of shorthand and dictation. She married, cared for her aging parents, and devoted herself to raising a family. Esther was steadfast in her support of her late husband, James D. Demeo, both at home and in his work.
Esther was a no-nonsense, determined woman who approached life with simplicity and strength. Routine-oriented and a creature of habit, she found comfort in the familiar and pride in her capabilities. She worked well into her 70s, Her resilience and strong work ethic were hallmarks of her character.
Though Esther embraced simplicity, she had a knack for making the ordinary extraordinary. She delighted in playing mahjong, achieving a perfect score at one point, and enjoyed golfing despite its challenges. A proud member of the Needham Golf Club, she also found joy in gardening, tending her plants with meticulous care. Esther expressed her creative side through art as an active member of the Needham Art Association, with her paintings adorning her home.
She will be deeply missed by her loving son, James Philip Demeo, and his wife, Paula, of Maynard. She is also survived by her brother, Richard Tejeiro of Roslindale, and was predeceased by her siblings Rita Sands and Edward Tejeiro.
“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” Esther lived both fully and beautifully. Her love was quiet yet powerful—consistent, unconditional, and ever-present. She was our biggest supporter, a source of boundless happiness, and a beacon of warmth with her signature sass, classic one-liners, and joyful family gatherings. Her famous flan will be fondly remembered by many.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation at the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 1305 Highland Ave., Needham, on Tuesday, October 6, from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11 AM at St. Joseph Church, Needham. Interment will be at St. Mary Cemetery, Needham.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Esther’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org