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Ted Rathbun Obituary

Ted Allen Rathbun COLUMBIA - Ted Allan Rathbun passed away quietly November 14, 2012, after a short illness. He was born April 11, 1942, in Ellsworth, Kansas, the son of Merle and Wilma Rathbun. He received bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Kansas at Lawrence. From 1966 to 1968, he was a Peace Corps volunteer in Iran. He returned to the University of Kansas, where he earned his doctorate in anthropology in 1971. Dr. Rathbun taught for 30 years at the University of South Carolina, where he was a distinguished professor emeritus. He was listed in Outstanding Men and Women in Science (1973), Outstanding Educators of America (1974), International Who's Who in Asian Studies, American Men (1978), and in Men and Women of Science, 14th Edition. At USC, he was named a Scudder Professor for excellence in teaching, mentoring & advising, and contributions beyond the University. He was a Diplomate of the American Board of Forensic Anthropology, and, in 2005, he received the prized T. Dale Stewart Award for outstanding service and contributions to the field. He was part of the Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Teams efforts after 9/ll. He assisted coroners in several South Carolina counties in identifying unknown skeletal remains. At the time of his death, Dr. Rathbun was a consultant for the Joint Prisoners of War, Missing in Action Accounting Command (JPAC), which recovers and identifies remains of military service people lost in battle. Through JPAC, he helped bring closure to many families. He taught hundreds of students at USC, where he was regarded as an outstanding educator. Many students traveled with him to excavation sites throughout the state; and, in 1997, he led a group of students to a dig in Egypt. He was interested in gardening and was determined to grow tomatoes like the ones he used to eat in Kansas. He loved to dance and was smooth and graceful on the dance floor. He was a loving husband to his wife, Babette, and loving father to his son, Joel, both of Columbia. His family and friends will remember him for his wit, sense of humor, and kindness. He loved people, and people loved him. Dr. Rathbun wished for his body to be donated to the Forensic Anthropology Center at the University of Tennessee -- later to the Smithsonian Institution -- so that he may continue to teach others. Memorials may be made to Forensic Sciences Foundation, 410 N. 21st St., Colorado Springs, CO 80904.

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Published by The State on Nov. 17, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
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Kathryn Desilet

December 9, 2024

I have very fond memories of Mr. Rathbun. When in high school, many years ago, I babysat regularly with his son, Joel, so that he and his wife, Babette, could go out - usually for square dancing I believe. The Rathbun family lived close to my family in Shandon. They were all so nice and I was in awe of Mr. Rathbun´s intelligence and recognition in his field. I recently saw a crime show where his expertise was used years ago. When I look back on my life - and my younger years - I definitely remember this family very fondly. Ted Rathbun was such an incredible, unique presence in this world.
Kathryn Desilet

Mike Trinkley

November 11, 2022

I remain saddened by Ted's loss, both as a friend, colleague, and incredible professional. I think of him often and and there remains a place in my heart that remains empty.

Vicki Arnold

April 25, 2018

I didn't learn of Dr. Rathbun's passing until today. I was in his Introductory class many years ago, and he was a terrific lecturer. I even remember the very first day of class when he told us his name wasn't Rathbone. I'm sure he had to say that a lot! Every once in a while over the years, a particular concept or term I learned in that semester comes to mind, and I've actually gone back through my old notes once or twice to refresh my memory. My (belated) condolences to his family; he was a great guy to have as a professor during my first semester when I was a little bit anxious about what I was in for, and I know he had a positive impact on so many other students both as an educator and a genial presence.

June 22, 2014

I knew Ted as my professor for several classes, and went on a dig to Galivants Ferry in the summer of '85. Summer school, we dug up sherds and bone fragments, even a couple of arrowheads. You were the man Dr. Rathbun. SLED had to come and take him to identify some girls being murdered by a serial kiler. Iearned a lot from you and appreciate your willingless to teach me. I did get my minor in Archeaology.

June 11, 2014

Dr. Rathbun was my professor and advisor at USC when I was an anthropology major in the early 80s. He was brilliant, funny, inspiring and an all around wonderful guy. I was really saddened when I learned of his death. The world lost a great person.

Kin McKenzie

May 18, 2014

I was in Dr. Rathbun's Forensic Anthropology class in the 80s when I returned to USC for grad school. I have told many friends over the years how Dr. Rathbun inspired me. My condolences to family and friends.

Sheila Pringle

March 23, 2014

I was a student of Dr. Rathbun. He changed my thinking and my life.

September 10, 2013

I first met Dr. Ted Rathbun when he was an instructor at a Southern Institute of Forensic Science course in New Orleans in 2001. We subsequently renewed our acquaintance at several AAFS meetings thereafter. Ted was an incredibly kind, outgoing, engaging, and warm man with a wonderful sense of humour, who seemed to delight in teaching. There was no question too trivial for him to provide a detailed answer. He had an encyclopedic knowledge of forensic anthropology which he was always keen to share.

In the words of Chief Seattle, “There is no death, only a change of worlds.” My most sincere condolences to Ted's family. Ranald Donaldson MD, Victoria, B.C., Canada.

Clark Larsen

March 26, 2013

I first met Ted in 1972 when I was a sophomore at Kansas State University, attending my first meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropologists in Lawrence, KS. Ted was one of the first professionals I met, and I have enjoyed knowing him ever since. He was thoughtful, offered me great advice over the years, and recommended to me a student of his who became one of my first Ph.D. students. We've lost a good guy, and a wonderful colleague.

Clark Larsen

Ted with the media, 199

Michael Trinkley

February 9, 2013

Ted excavating a burial 1993

Michael Trinkley

February 9, 2013

Ted leading a scene search 1997

Michael Trinkley

February 8, 2013

john keigans

February 8, 2013

Ted Was a great man to know. just knew him casually. Ted was always a friendly nice man ,,fun to be around !

Ted at Richland County exhumation, 1984

Mike Trinkley

February 8, 2013

Ted at DJJ excavations, 1981

Mike Trinkley

February 8, 2013

February 7, 2013

Dear Babette, We have not seen each other since the Summer of 1966 when we were in Peace Corps training for Iran. Many of us young married couples and singles looking for adventure and a way to do good. None of us knowing our potential and eager to begin. So sorry to learn of Ted's death and that I missed the last 44 years of his and your wonderful life. Hope to see you in Boston this June. Emily Bettencourt (Davies), RPCV, Iran 12

February 5, 2013

I knew Ted for many years at USC, and I was always scheming to get him to teach an honors course for my students. When he did, the results were dynamite. Ted, one of the best -- as a friend, as a colleague and as an example to us all. Love the grin!
--Bill Mould

Chris and Marzena Amer

January 24, 2013

Marzena and I are so very saddened to hear of Ted's passing. Such a wonderful colleague and a great sense of humour. As for his ability as a dancer, we both fondly remember Ted shagging with Norma Palms at one memorable Octoberfest in the parking lot of the President's House. Ted, we will both miss you. Babette and Joel, we are so sorry for your loss.

Cindy Connor

January 15, 2013

What a great guy and teacher Ted was! An example to us all! He is missed by everyone. Wishing his family the best.
-former student & fellow gardener with Babette

Dennis Brown

December 14, 2012

My then wife and I were Peace Corps volunteers in Iran with Ted and Babette. While I did not know Ted during his years at USC, I remember him and one of the kindest and most caring men I ever met. I was shocked and saddened by his passing. Much aloha to Babette and the family,

December 5, 2012

Babette, it was a such a pleasure to share an occasional table and conversation with you and Ted at the AAFS meetings over the years; you both were so kind to me. I am so sorry for the loss for you and Joel. Ted made everyone feel so special when he was around...like you were the most important person in the room. I will miss his wonderful smile and kindness. My thoughts are with you and Joel. Mary Manhein

Jackie Rice

November 30, 2012

There are some people who make the world a better place and Ted was definitely one of them. His passion for life and his profession was a gift to anyone who was associated with him. Ted's classes in the 90's and the trip to Eygpt in 97 were highlights of my time at USC. Ted will be missed.

Shuala Drawdy

November 29, 2012

My thoughts are with the Rathbun family. Ted will be greatly missed.

November 28, 2012

Having had the privilege of working with Ted on a couple of field projects decades ago, I can only say he was the best supervisor I had ever encountered. The atmosphere was always convivial and he was able to manage the crew with his humor and kindness. I always thought he should have done radio with his fabulous voice. He and Babette were such a team. I know he was a great mentor, father and husband. He was also the best of men. Jeanne Metropol Haight

Reina Wong

November 26, 2012

Ted Rathbun was an extremely nice person during the field work he led with Roxie Walker at the American University in Cairo, Egypt in 1987. He had a charming southern accent, and he was a good dancer too. He taught us, about 8 of us, the two-step, and we danced on the boat we all lived in, anchored on the Nile. He was always professional, but tried to keep an eye on us all without being patronizing or overly familiar. Really upstanding guy.

Debi Hacker

November 26, 2012

Ted was the best. Best forensic anthropologist, mentor, teacher, & friend. A kinder, funnier man there never was. We mourn his loss so deeply, a hole in our personal & professional lives that can't be filled.

November 26, 2012

Ted was one of the great persons of our time. Babette and Joel, my heartfelt condolences to you. Nancy Brock, Columbia SC

Tracy Oost

November 22, 2012

My first AAFS conference was in 1994 and I was presenting a poster. Ted showed great interest, asked me lots of questions, and made me feel very welcome. What I found astounding was that he recognized me at subsequent conferences and treated me like a colleague despite being a student, and barely knowing me. Definitely a class act. I wish I could have taken a course with him. My deepest sympathies to his family. May you be comforted by how much Ted was loved and respected by so many. Tracy Oost, Laurentian University

Thorne Compton

November 21, 2012

Ted was a friend, and an inspiration to me and so many others...He changed the lives of so many people...My best to Babette and Joel...

Lorrie Shealy Shields

November 21, 2012

Ever since I took several of Dr. Rathbun's anthropology classes in the 70s, I have told everyone that he was one of the most gifted teachers I have ever encountered. Luckily, I ran into him several years ago and got to tell him that in person. He was such a talented teacher, I believe he could have taught anything well but his passion for anthropology was obvious. He will be sincerely missed but we have all been enriched by knowing him.

Ted at the Mountain, Swamp and Beach 2005

Beth Murray

November 21, 2012

My heart was broken by this news. Ted was a great man who always made time for others and gave special attention to students. He was a "networker" before that word was cool. Ted treated everyone as if they mattered to him. He told the best stories, and had so many interests and even more abilities. Ted knew when to be serious but always knew when and how to be funny -- hilarious, even. And he had a smile that could light up the room (as you can see from the photo). Ted, I will miss you so much and I thank you for all the assistance and insight you gave to me, personally, as well as to the fields of physical and forensic anthropology. Babette and Joel, I am grieving with you and if I can do anything to help you, don't hesitate to ask. Beth

Kathy Gruspier

November 20, 2012

It was the early '80s. I was all alone at this big AAFS conference - you and Babette took me under your wing. Thank you, I'll miss you. Big hugs Babette.

Cat Keegan

November 20, 2012

I will always miss his smiling face and the twinkle in his eye before he told the good parts to a story! He was a fantastic man and I am better for knowing him.

Frank Barron

November 19, 2012

Ted was my good friend, a great teacher, a devoted husband and father. He was always ready to go when I needed him professionally. He was well respected amoung his peers. When I was in the Dade County Medical Examiner's Office, I saw the Forensic Anthropology book that Ted Co-authored.The M.E. said that it was his number one reference source for skeletal identification. I never saw Ted that he was not telling me about you, Babette and Joel.My prayers are with you.

November 19, 2012

We knew and delighted in Ted as a colleague and a friend. Too early a goodbye. Our condolences to Babette and family.
Sue Jimenez & Stan Rhine

November 19, 2012

I'll miss your smiling face and super hugs, not to mention your contributions to the field. Bye, Ted.

Phoebe Stubblefield

November 19, 2012

I'm going to miss you Ted. I'll miss you sneaking up behind me to blow in my ear, always making me fear Babette's wrath! I'm am honored to have known you. Babette, if you need anything from me, please do not hesitate to ask.

Annie Katzenberg

November 19, 2012

Ted was a wonderful person and a fine colleague. I always looked forward to talking to him at AAPA and AAFS meetings. He was full of wit and wisdom. I am very sorry to hear of his passing.

Kathy Reichs

November 19, 2012

Ted was a wonderful colleague and friend. He will be greatly missed.

Susan Pfeiffer

November 19, 2012

Ted was a wonderful colleague, whose delightful warmth will be remembered by everyone who knew him.

Elizabeth DiGangi

November 19, 2012

My deepest condolences to Dr. Rathbun's family. His wit and his smile will be missed.

Dale Lowder

November 19, 2012

My condolences to Dr Rathbun's family. I was priviledged to take Ted's physical anthropology classes in the 70's. What a great teacher and nice person. He treated everyone with respect and kindness and remembered former students years later. I will always remember him.

Carla Vinetti

November 19, 2012

My deepest condolences to Mrs. Rathbun and her son Joel for their loss. Dr. Rathbun was an amazing man who earned respect from many people. My prayers are with the family. Love, Carla

Michelle Schryver

November 19, 2012

My heart is with you

November 19, 2012

To the family and friends of Ted Rathbun:

Our condolences for your loss, and our deep thanks to Ted for his service to our nation. Our thoughts are with you.

The National Peace Corps Association

Tony Falsetti

November 19, 2012

Ted was a wonderful person, great mentor and better friend. My deepest sympathy to Babette and Joel.

Kenneth Styer

November 17, 2012

Ted hired me as his lab assistant in 1984 and I was hooked on anthropology. When I saw him at a professional meeting only a few years ago, I greeted him with, "Damn it Ted, you did this to me", which was answered by an ear to ear grin. I hope that Babette and Joel are consoled by these comments as they are written by people who loved and respected Ted. God's speed friend.

Cheryl Fowler

November 17, 2012

I was Ted's secretary for several years in the Dept. of Anthropology at USC. He was always one of my favorites...a great guy! I offer my sympathy to Babette and Joel.

Gerry Buchanan

November 17, 2012

Our deepest condolences to Babette and the Rathbun family for their loss. Dr. Rathbun will be missed by all who ever met him.

Mike

November 17, 2012

Ted was a consummate professional, an exceptional teacher, and a warm and considerate human being. His depth of knowledge of forensic anthropology was only surpassed by the depth of his friendship and willingness to help others. He touched anyone fortunate enough to be a student or colleague. He will be deeply missed, but lives on in the lives he touched, the students he nurtured, and the families he helped bring closure. Here's to you, Ted – thank you.

Dennis Morgan

November 17, 2012

I was in one of Dr. Rathburn's classes at USC. He was the best professor I ever had and I always looked forward to his class. He cannot be replaced.

Egypt, 1997

Suzanne Abel

November 17, 2012

Dr. Rathbun was my professor from 1996-1998. I'll never forget his sense of humor and his intelligence. He was a giant in his field.

Dave Fowler

November 17, 2012

Ted was one of the nicest preson I have ever encountered. Also he was a gifted scholar. I had him for Anthro. 101 in '72 I believe. My favorite professor by far. RIP Dr. Ted.

France's Glover

November 17, 2012

I worked with Dr, Rathbun at USC in the seventies, as an undergrad. I will remember him as a kind and considerate man!

George "Buddy" Wingard

November 17, 2012

Ted was a great teacher and mentor. He left an impression on all who knew him and will certainly be missed.

Anna Dixon

November 17, 2012

Dr. Rathbun was one of the finest human beings I've ever met. I count myself blessed to have known him and to be his student. My deepest condolences to his family.

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