Theodis “Ted” Wilder, also called “Partner” by those who knew him from childhood, was born on February 9, 1942, in Louisville, Mississippi, to Mable Johnson and Archie Wilder. He also had a close bond with his stepmother, whom he fondly called “Momma Nancy.”

After high school, Ted moved to Detroit, where he enlisted in the Navy and later worked as a computer programmer for the IRS Data Center. Known for his technical skills and ingenuity, Ted enjoyed tinkering with cars and finding creative solutions to everyday challenges.

Ted met and married June (Whitaker), and together they had one child, Farrah. Ted was deeply devoted to his family, serving as a second father to his niece Julie McFarlane (Rubens) and nephew Jeffrey Wilder. He shared a particularly close bond with his daughter Farrah, enjoying music, backyard conversations, and adventurous outings.

A man of many interests, Ted was an avid gardener, astronomy enthusiast, and music lover. He had a deep admiration for Carl Sagan and Neil deGrasse Tyson and was known for his philosophical discussions and intellectual curiosity. A true non-conformist, Ted effortlessly built community wherever he went, always recognizable by his signature hats.

Ted passed away early on November 26, 2024, just shy of his 83rd birthday. He was predeceased by his parents, his sisters Gloria Wilder and Nellie Jean Rubens, and his brother Kenneth Wilder. He is survived by his daughter Farrah Wilder, brother Maurice Wilder, ex-wife June Wilder, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.

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