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ABBOTT, Theodore "Ted" Herbert, 69, passed away on Thursday, July 23, 2020 with his sisters by his side. Ted was born September 22, 1950 in Mt. Kisco, N.Y. to the late Herbert "Skip" Abbott and Edna Ann Lutomski. He was also predeceased by his sister, Peggy Ann Abbott. Ted grew up as the eldest of five children in Albemarle County, Va. After graduating from Albemarle High School and Ferrum Junior College, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where he was stationed in Tampa, Fla. and served several years in Stuttgart, Germany. Ted returned to Tampa, Fla. following his military service and it was there where his love of sailing began. Ted sailed a boat through the Panama Canal to California. He resided in Redwood City, Calif. for over 35 years. He was very involved in BAADS (Bay Area Association for Disabled Sailors). Having been diagnosed with Kennedy's Disease (a neuromuscular disease), Ted never allowed this disease and the physical limitations it presented to limit his dreams or activities. Ted moved to Richmond, Va. to be nearer to family in 2010. Bringing his love of sailing and his desire to help others know the joy of being on the water, Ted founded his non-profit, Sailing4All. On the pontoon boat which Ted skippered, he welcomed veterans, people with physical disabilities, the elderly and children with learning disabilities to enjoy the fresh air, natural surroundings and wildlife of the James River. Although Ted had many friends in California and Virginia, it was on the San Francisco Bay and James River where he was happiest. Ted was a member of Mason Lodge No. 211 and ACCA Shrine Legion of Honor in Richmond. Ted is survived by his sisters, Ginny A. Little (Larry) of Chesterfield, Va., Barbara A. Buchanan (Lee) of Chevy Chase, Md.; and his brother, Bruce D. Abbott Sr. of Richmond, Va. He also leaves to cherish his memory nephews and nieces, Steven Little (Maria) of Kingston, N.Y., Christy Moore (Andy) of Norfolk, Lauren Abbott (and her daughters) and Bruce Abbott Jr., all of Wasilla, Ala. and Kim Rodriquez (Jacob) of California; as well as beloved cousins. A Celebration of Life/memorial service to honor Ted will be held on September 25, 2021 at 10 a.m. at Rockett's Landing in Richmond, Va. Please bring lawn chairs for seating. There will be additional services in Charlottesville, Va. and San Francisco, Calif. at later dates. Donations are requested in Ted's honor to the Kennedy's Disease Association (kennedysdisease.org). Ted created wonderful memories for all who sailed with him (and volunteered with him). His positive can-do attitude and sheer determination kept him active and focused while having fun and inspiring those around him. "Fair winds, blue skies" from Ted to all of his family and friends. Sail on, Ted. |
