John David Teal joined the Church Triumphant on January 12, 2023 and is now with his Lord and Savior. Dave, as he was known, was born in New York City. His parents were John William Teal and Jeanne Sara Wanamaker. He had one sister, Nancy Jean Kyle, who predeceased him. His parents moved to Denver and then to Seattle. He grew up in Seattle and went to Queen Anne High School. He graduated from Caltech, and then entered Harvard University where he received his PhD in physics. It was while he was in Cambridge, MA that he met Nancy Hartman and they married in 1965. Dave took a job as an instructor in physics at Tougaloo College and later became an Associate Professor. He enjoyed many years preparing students for careers in physics, and related sciences. He was an advisor for the Pre-Engineering and Physical Sciences Program and did many activities to promote the physics program. He was a member of Christ Lutheran Church, Jackson for many years where he served as a choir member and elder. He gave platelets at Mississippi Blood Services for many years. He enjoyed traveling and camping and watching his children in their various activities. He is survived by John Teal and his children, Grace and Henry Teal; and Lara Clement (David) and their children, Steven and Nancy; as well as nephew and nieces, Bryan (Fadra) Kyle, Karen (David) Polen, and Kristen Clause. A service will be held at Christ Lutheran Church on January 21, 2023 with visitation at 10 and the service at 11. The graveside burial will be at Lakewood Cemetery, 6011 Clinton Blvd, Jackson, MS immediately following the service. Memorials, if desired, may be made to Christ Lutheran Church, 4423 I-55 North, Jackson, MS or to the charity of your choice.
