Teddy Albert Reese, 65, of Rocky Point passed from his earthly life on January 4, 2014 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

He was born in Cleveland, Ohio and was the son of the late Walter Clyde and Alice May Chatham Reese. Teddy was also preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Mary Louise Rackley.

Teddy is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Rebecca Wilson Reese; daughter, Tera Reese of Rocky Point; son, Terry Reese (Keri) of Billings, MT; grandchildren, Tasha Hubble (D. J., Jr.), Travis Reese (Janelle), Tylor Reese, Tristan Reese and Gavyn Godsey; great grandchildren, Marlie Hubble, Robbie Hubble and Jodi Reese; brother, Walter "Wally" Reese (Angela); sister, Christine Slavik (Lou); and many extended family and friends.

Teddy served his country honorably for 20 years in The US Coast Guard. He served during the Vietnam era and received many medals and commendations during his military career. After retiring from the Coast Guard, Teddy embarked on a second career as a computer systems analyst.

Teddy loved his family above all else, but he also loved people. Teddy loved music and jokes, each day sending two songs and a joke via computer to his many friends to uplift them and give them a laugh along life's way. Prior to computers, Teddy was a radio specialist in the military so it was natural that he became a ham radio operator with many handles. His passions in life were his many dogs, bicycling, riding in marathons, and making people feel better with his funny jokes and joyful spirit. A favorite saying of Teddy's was "I'll meet all my dogs at the Rainbow Bridge." Teddy's life was well lived and he was well loved and will be greatly missed.

A gathering of family and friends will be 6 to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 11, 2014 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel. Full military honors will be accorded by the US Coast Guard Honor Guard and American Legion Post 10 Honor Guard at 6:00 p.m.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

A gathering of family and friends will be 6 to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 11, 2014 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel. Full military honors will be accorded by the US Coast Guard Honor Guard and American Legion Post 10 Honor Guard at 6:00 p.m.