Theodore Beals

Winter Haven, Fla. — Theodore Watson Beals, 90, formerly of Waterford, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2017.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Gloria Shederske Beals; his daughter, Cynthia Beals of Winter Haven; his son, Kenneth Beals and his wife, Debbie, of Bartow, Fla.; two grandsons, Shawn Glynn and his partner, Meredyethe Massay, of Virginia Beach, Va., and Ryan Glynn and his wife, Kim, of Winter Haven; and four great-grandchildren, Morgan Rose, Hannah Glynn, Dylan Humphrey and Victoria Glynn; and many nieces and nephews.

Ted was born on Aug. 6, 1927, in Moshannon, Pa., to Hazel and James Beals. He was one of eight siblings, one of whom, Melvin Beals, survives him. He was predeceased by his parents and six siblings.

Ted joined the Navy at the age of 17 and retired after 21 years of service. During his time in the Navy he rose to the rank of senior chief, chief of the boat, and taught NROTC at Yale University. He attended Mitchell College and graduated first in his class; he then continued his education at Quinnipiac College, where he received his degree in accounting. He later became a CPA and worked for what would become Doherty, Beals & Banks in New London until his retirement and move to Florida.

The term “he never met a stranger” is used so often that it barely means anything anymore, but in my Dad’s case it was so very apt. He had a weakness for babies, teased nurses and waitstaff unmercifully, loved a good joke and Stephen Colbert. The last night of his life he watched Colbert with his daughter, and had a great time laughing with her. He was a gentle, compassionate, organized, methodical, temperamental and loving soul who will be missed by not only his immediate family, but by all who knew him.

Ted was able to leave this earth on his terms, in total peace and spiritual grace. He was a “man beyond measure.”

There will be no services. ICS Cremation Society is handling arrangements.

Donations may be made in his name to the charity of your choice.