October 14, 1940 – April 19, 2025
MANTEO — Teddy Fendell Johnson, HMC, USN, Retired, passed away peacefully at his home in Manteo, North Carolina, on April 19, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on October 14, 1940, in Halifax, North Carolina, Teddy led a life marked by dedication, service, and love for family.
After graduating from Central High School in Elizabeth City, he embarked on a distinguished career in the United States Navy, enlisting in August 1959. Over 20 years, Teddy served with honor, ultimately retiring as a Chief Hospital Corpsman. His commitment to service continued with the Military Sealift Command, where he spent another 21 years as the Chief Medical Officer and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander.
Teddy’s service earned him numerous commendations, including the Vietnam Service Medal and Ribbon with Bronze Star, National Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Medal, and Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. His dedication to his country was matched only by his devotion to his family and his community.
In addition to his military career, Teddy also worked at The Coastland Times for many years, sharing his talents and insights with the community. Outside of work, he found joy in pen and ink drawings, building, wood crafting and carving, boating, fishing, and gardening.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lottie Verla Jones Johnson and William Clifton Johnson; sister, Kitty Sue Sawyer; and brothers, Norman, Gene R., and Mayhue Johnson.
Teddy is survived by his beloved wife, Martha “Marcie” Etheridge Johnson; daughters, Robin Gard (Clyde), Kim Hanson (Gary), and Chrissea Rothrock; sons, David Johnson (Rhonda) and Gene O’Neal. He also leaves behind cherished grandchildren, Lisa Price (Curtis), LeAnn Bordone (Zach), Timothy Gard (Jennifer), Jason Johnson, Samantha Gard, Kaia Rothrock, Ashley Williams (Christopher), Cyle O’Neal, Edward Michael (Kara), and Lindsey O’Neal; along with twenty great-grandchildren. His extended family includes sisters-in-law, Judith Johnson and Virginia Liverman (Sam); and brother-in-law, Pat Etheridge.
A Celebration of Teddy’s life will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at Twiford Funeral Homes Outer Banks Chapel, with Stephanie Beasley officiating. To live stream Teddy’s service, please visit www.TwifordFH.com. Following the service, all are invited to join the family at the Johnson residence, 140 Payne Road, Manteo. A private graveside committal service with military honors will be held at Roanoke Island Memorial Gardens.
Teddy Fendell Johnson will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his country, his love for his family, and his zest for life. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
