Tom Teague

October 7, 1949 - December 30, 2025Tommy Lee Teague, known to many as Tom, passed away on December 30, at the age of 76. He was born on October 7, 1949, in Albertville, Alabama, to Carl and Bonnie Teague and grew up in Berkley, Michigan. Tom served in the United States Army from 1968 - 1971. During his service, he was deployed to Vietnam with the 19th Combat Engineers Battalion.
Tom married his best friend, Karen, in 1978 and together enjoyed raising five children on farmland in Michigan.
Tom was a man who was always working with his hands. A self-made master mechanic, he often joked that he had owned "probably 50 cars" over his lifetime. Whether modifying, repairing, or restoring them, he was never happier than when he was solving a mechanical problem. His talents extended far beyond automobiles: Tom built three houses for his family, handling everything from wiring and plumbing to the finishing details. There was little he couldn't fix, and if he couldn't fix it, he would just build it from scratch.
He also loved the outdoors and enjoyed spending time camping and fishing. Being outside, surrounded by nature, was one of the places he felt most at peace.
The thing that meant the most to him was his faith and family. He is survived by the love of his life, Karen and his children: April (JB) Hunt, Tom (Greta) Teague, Anne Teague, Melissa (Derek) Brown, and Krystal; along with nine beloved grandchildren and good friend Matt Janson. Being a grandfather was one of his greatest joys, and he loved his retirement years surrounded by grandchildren.
Tom will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his ingenuity, his love of the outdoors, and the dozens of hilarious stories he told. No one could tell a story like "two story" Tom. His family will forever carry his memory and his laugh in their hearts, and hope to carry on his legacy of the "figure it out" attitude and build it yourself.
Funeral Services for Tom will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, January 2, 2026 at Ware Smith Woolever Funeral Home, 1200 West Wheeler Street. Pastor Josh Parsons will officiate with burial to follow in Midland Cemetery. Tom's family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider St. John's Lutheran School or a Veteran of your choice. All of us at Ware Smith Woolever are honored the Teague family has entrusted us with the care of their loved one.