Ted Turnipseed

Billy Ted Turnipseed, born on October 25, 1952, in Montgomery, Alabama, passed away on May 1, 2025. Ted's life was marked by a profound dedication to education and service, which he honored throughout his distinguished career.

After earning a full scholarship to Memphis State, where he served as the basketball  manager during the school's runner-up NCAA championship in 1973, Ted set forth on an impactful journey in education. Following his graduation, he moved to California and began his career with the Department of Defense. His commitment took him across continents, as he taught in Panama at Fort Clayton, before being reassigned in 1998 to Wetzel Elementary School in Baumholder, Germany as a Learning Intervention (LI) teacher.

Ted's expertise and passion for teaching expanded globally, with stints in Naples, Italy, Okinawa, and Japan, where he contributed to the educational development of numerous students. In 2007, Ted returned to Fort Campbell, where he served as the Principal at Andre' Lucas Elementary School, followed by a leadership role at Barkley Elementary School. In 2016, he had the unique privilege of opening the new 21st-century Barkley Elementary School, a milestone in his career that allowed him to establish new traditions and further contribute to the community.

Ted is survived by his sister, Theresa (Wesley) Tibbs; his nephews, John (Megan) and Adam (Erin) Fesmire; and his niece, Felecia Gernica, along with many loving friends who will remember him for his kindness, enthusiasm, and unwavering support.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Billy and Laverne Turnipseed. Ted's legacy of dedication to education and the positive impact he made on countless lives will be cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.