Theodore “Ted” Wade Atwood, of Beaumont, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026, at the age of 86.
Ted was born on June 16, 1940, in Buras, Louisiana, to Ernest Atwood and Mary Torkelson Atwood. Later, the family moved to Hamshire, Texas, where Ted was raised. As a young boy, he became a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Hamshire, where he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior—a faith that remained the foundation of his life.
Ted graduated from Hamshire High School, where he enjoyed participating in both sports and the school band. He later attended Lamar University, where he met the love of his life, Ann Michael. They were married for nearly 65 years, just one month and a few days shy of their 65th wedding anniversary. Together they made their home in Beaumont, Texas. During their first five years together, their family grew to include two children. They became active members of Rosedale Baptist Church, where they worshiped and raised their family.
Ted treasured time spent with those he loved. Family camping trips, fishing the lakes of East Texas, and especially night fishing at Rollover Pass on Bolivar Peninsula were among his favorite pastimes. The family also enjoyed floating the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers together. Music was another important part of family life, and Ted proudly served as the bass guitarist during many evenings of singing together. Though these activities were simple, they created a lifetime of treasured memories.
A devoted student of family history, Ted spent countless hours researching his ancestry at the Tyrrell Historical Library in Beaumont. His dedication resulted in numerous volumes documenting his family’s genealogy, a lasting legacy for future generations.
Ted was a hardworking and dependable provider who was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He often gave both God and Mobil Oil the credit for enabling him to provide for his family. He considered his career with Mobil Oil to be his dream job and frequently spoke of the camaraderie among his coworkers, describing it as a true brotherhood of men who looked out for one another. He held the company and those he worked alongside in the highest regard.
Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Earnest and Mary Torkelson Atwood, and his sister, Myra Selmser, and her husband, Robert.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Atwood; his son, John Atwood and wife, Michelle; his daughter, Angela Hayes and husband, Jim; his granddaughter, Hannah Roberts and husband, Billy; his grandson, Ethan Hayes and wife, Gabi; and his great-grandson, Finneas Atwood Hayes.
He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Ward and husband, Bob, Peggy Atwood, Sarah Bardwell and husband, Pat, and Andrea Sticker and husband, David, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
Ted fought a long and courageous battle through many health challenges, bearing the scars of those struggles with perseverance and faith. As Christians, we rejoice in God’s promise that in Heaven all things are made new. Today, Ted is whole, healed, and in the presence of his Savior.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his family finds peace and comfort in the assurance that they will see him again. We are grateful to know that he will never thirst again, his cup will never be empty, and he now rests in the eternal presence of the Lord.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, caregivers, and medical staff whose compassion, kindness, and dedicated care brought comfort to Ted and his family throughout his final journey.
Memorial contributions may be made to the COPD Foundation, PO Box 160112, Miami, Florida 33116-0112 or Rosedale Baptist Church, 7110 Concord Road, Beaumont, Texas 77708.
A gathering of Mr. Atwood’s family and friends will begin at 10:00 a.m., with his funeral service at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. His graveside service will follow Thursday at 3:00 p.m. at Fairview Cemetery, Fairview Cemetery Road, Winnie.
Complete and updated information may be found at: broussards1889.com.
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