Theodore S. “Ted” Durden, 71, of Benton Harbor, passed away on Sunday, February 18, 2024.
A celebration of life service will be held on Friday, February 23, 2024, at 1PM, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph with Richard Kiser officiating. Burial will follow at Crystal Springs Cemetery. Friends may visit with Ted’s family on Friday from 12PM until the time of the service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Autism Speaks, P.O. Box 37148, Boone, IA 50037-0148. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Ted was born on October 10, 1952, to Fred & Lulabelle (Horton) Durden in St. Joseph. He attended Coloma High School. He worked for McDonald Dairy as a Truck Driver. Ted found solace in the simple joys in life, often spending his spare moments fishing, hunting, and trying his luck at the casino. Yet, above all else, Ted cherished his family and the moments spent with them. Among the many memories shared with his loved ones, Ted held a special fondness for the nickname “Walker Texas Ranger,” lovingly given to him by Jmya.
Ted is survived by his children, Heidi Durden of Benton Harbor and Christina (Chris) Driver of Benton Harbor; grandchildren, MyKayla Kirby, Aaron Durden, Riana Bird, Gregory Durden, Desmond (Tang) Durden, Dezirae Durden, Daisha Fowler, Jmya Jordan and Makenzie Driver; great-grandchildren, Amari Chillers, Desmond Durden Jr., Kayori Taylor, J’Asani McElrath, Nova-Sky Howard, Faith Jackson, and LaVayah Jackson; siblings, Freddy Durden, Edith Swisher, Robert “Bobby” (Debbie) Durden, Michael (Sherry) Durden, Tina Waldrop and Pat Durden; ex-wife, Pamela Durden; and casino buddy Vina Driver.
Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Fred & Lulabelle Durden; son Bennie Durden; and brothers, Charles & Danny Durden.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 269-556-9450.
Memorial Contributions:
AUTISM SPEAKS
Service Details
Visitation
When
February 23rd, 2024 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Where
Starks & Menchinger Chapel
Address
2650 Niles Rd.
St. Joseph, MI 49085
Service
When
February 23rd, 2024 1:00pm
Where
Starks & Menchinger Chapel
Address
2650 Niles Rd.
St. Joseph , MI 49085
Interment
Where
Crystal Springs Cemetery
Address
1655 E. Napier Ave.
Benton Harbor , MI 49022