Ted Murray Yoder wasn’t just a participant in life—he orchestrated it like a grand narrative, rich with family connections, political debates, and, of course, his beloved WCU Catamounts. Born in 1954, Ted’s true “era” was whenever there was a lively conversation happening, preferably about history, politics, or the intricate branches of the Yoder family tree. He could easily transition from recounting the life of your great-great-grandfather to convincing you to vote Democrat, and then, just as smoothly, engage in a passionate discussion about the best season in WCU football history—all before you finished your coffee.

Ted worked for 26 years at Hickory Chair, but let’s be honest: that job was just a means to an end. His real passion? Family genealogy. Ted didn’t just research Yoder history; he *was* Yoder history. If you attended a Yoder Family Reunion, chances are you got a crash course in family lineage that would make professional genealogists question their credentials. Ted’s annual family history talks became legendary, leaving family members alternately in awe and in need of a second cup of coffee. Rest assured, if your last name is Yoder, you’ve likely heard one of Ted’s stories—and if you haven’t yet, just wait, it’s coming.

When Ted wasn’t elbow-deep in Yoder archives, you could find him donning his Western Carolina University gear, ready to cheer on the Catamounts. It didn’t matter if it was football, volleyball, or something as obscure as competitive knitting—if WCU was involved, Ted was their number one fan. His allegiance ran so deep, he practically bled purple and gold. There are rumors that Ted once floated the idea of painting his house in WCU colors, only to be met with a well-deserved eye-roll from his wife, Jackie. Ted wasn’t just a sports enthusiast, though; he was also a devoted supporter of the arts, especially WCU’s theater program.

Politically, Ted was as resolute as they come. A staunch Democrat, he never shied away from political discourse, particularly if he saw an opportunity to convert a Republican. If you found yourself within earshot, prepare for a passionate, yet friendly, attempt to sway your vote. His one regret? That he won’t be able to cast his ballot for Kamala Harris in the next election. You can almost hear him saying, “If only I had just a bit more time.”

Ted leaves behind a family who will deeply miss his vibrant spirit: his sons Kurt Yoder (and partner Sidney Smith) and Trent Yoder (and wife Elizabeth Cobb Yoder); his stepson Jason Austin (and wife Erin Yoder Austin); and his grandson, Cooper Austin, the apple of Ted’s eye in his later years. His sister, Joyce Yoder Cockman, with whom he shared a close bond, will carry forward their shared memories. Ted’s greatest partner through it all, his wife Jaqueline Bollinger Yoder, will continue to embody the warmth, passion, and love for family that Ted brought to every facet of his life. He now joins his parents, Gerald and Maynell Yoder, and his sister, Mary Rose Yoder Morris, likely in a celestial reunion filled with laughter and stories.

In classic Ted fashion, his parting words might have been: “Remember to vote—and don’t forget to wear your WCU purple and gold with pride.”

Ted Murray Yoder’s legacy of family, history, and his unwavering dedication to his alma mater lives on in the countless lives he touched. His stories will continue to be told for generations, even as we try to figure out exactly how we’re related to that one Yoder cousin in Pennsylvania. And as for Ted? Well, wherever he is now, you can bet he’s already organizing the next Yoder family reunion, complete with genealogy charts and plenty of purple and gold.

A small, intimate family service was held on Friday, September 13th, at Ted’s childhood home. Surrounded by the memories and places that shaped him, his closest loved ones gathered to honor his remarkable life. Though small in size, the service was rich in stories, laughter, and the sense of community Ted so cherished. It was a peaceful and fitting tribute to the man who brought people together in every way. For those who were unable to attend, a larger celebration of Ted’s life and legacy will be held at a later date, allowing everyone who knew and loved him the opportunity to gather and remember the impact he made on so many lives.

In lieu of flowers, Ted would have preferred that his legacy be honored by continuing his fight for the causes he held dear. Please consider making a donation in his name to Act Blue, supporting the political causes Ted was so passionate about, or to the Western Carolina University Mountain Heritage Center, where his love for history and the WCU community can continue to inspire future generations.