Theodore James Rupley

Theodore "Ted" James Rupley, 86, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, at his home in Waleska, Georgia, surrounded by his loving family.

Born April 28, 1939, in Sacramento, California, Ted lived a long, full, and remarkably accomplished life defined by curiosity, dedication, music, and a deep commitment to the people he loved. He was the son of Charles Jerrett Rupley and Amelia "Mea" Oswald Rupley, who nurtured in him both a strong work ethic and a lifelong love of learning.

Ted graduated from Reno High School in 1957 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of Nevada in 1962, completing additional studies in philosophy, accounting, psychology and strategic planning- a reflection of his wide-ranging mind and what made him such a strong leader and visionary.

Immediately after college, Ted honorably served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant, he received his engineering training at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, before joining the 4th Infantry Division Combat Engineers at Fort Lewis, Washington. Dedicated and capable, he completed his active-duty tour as a First Lieutenant, later serving in the U.S. Army Reserve until 1968 and resigning his commission as a Combat Engineer Captain. His years of service shaped his strong sense of responsibility, discipline, and respect for others.

Ted's professional life was marked by exceptional leadership and integrity. He began his insurance career in 1964 with Allstate Insurance Company, rising from underwriter to Executive Vice President. His talent for guiding organizations through periods of growth and change led him to serve as President and CEO of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company, President and CEO of Hanover Insurance Group, Chairman, President and CEO of nine of the business units at AIG, the principal company being the New Hampshire Insurance Group, which was one of the cornerstones of the AIG empire, and President and CEO of Frontier Insurance Group. He served on many Boards throughout his career and was listed as a noteworthy insurance company executive in Marquis Who's Who. Ted never said no to a new opportunity and would take on each new assignment with a positive attitude and without any fear of failure. Over several decades-and through fourteen relocations across seven states-brought vision, calm resolve, and genuine care for the people he worked with.

Beyond his impressive career, Ted was a man of deep interests and quiet joys. He loved documenting family history, ensuring that past generations were remembered and future ones understood where they came from. He found true joy and fulfillment on the water, where boating was not just a pastime but a passion that defined his summers. His love for high-speed boating led him to participate in numerous races up and down the Atlantic seaboard in Fountain Powerboats and Cigarette boats with skill and enthusiasm. This dedication and expertise earned him the title of President of Fountain Powerboats of Washington, NC for a time. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, and trap shooting, but his greatest pleasures remained simple: reading, relaxing with his loyal dog, and filling a room with the warm, soulful sound of his saxophone-an instrument that remained close to his heart throughout his life.

Ted's personal journey included 61 years of marriage across three meaningful chapters - 15 years, 3 years, and 43 years-each shaping the rich tapestry of his life.

Above all, Ted was devoted to his family. He is survived by his five children-Ted Rupley, Joe Rupley (Gina), Elizabeth Galloway (Brian), James Rupley (Sydney), and Mea Newman (Dave)-as well as twelve grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immeasurable pride and joy. Ted is also survived by his sister Debra and a number of special relatives and lifelong friends who enriched his life with companionship, support, and shared memories. Their love and presence meant the world to him, and he held each of them close to his heart.

Ted's life was big - full of movement, ambition, intellect, humor, and heart. He leaves behind a legacy of leadership, service, music, and family devotion. Those who knew him will remember his sharp mind, his steady presence, and the way he approached every new chapter with courage and purpose.

May his memory be a blessing and a source of comfort to all who loved him.

Memorial Arrangements

A private ceremony will take place at the Georgia National Cemetery at a later date

The caring staff of Darby Funeral Home is honored to serve the Rupley family.