The Reverend Dr. Thomas R. Teply

The Reverend Dr. Thomas R. Teply died on January 19, 2025, while residing at the Glen at Willow Valley Communities in Lancaster. He had been surrounded by loved ones just two months and two days prior in celebration of his 100th birthday. Thomas was preceded in death by his brother Virgil in childhood, wife Jeanne in 1967, wife Claire in 2021, and son John in 2024. Born in Gothenburg, NE, he was the son of the late Fred and Ruth (Rogers) Teply. He is survived by his son, David (Anne Marie) of Lancaster, PA, and daughter Cynthia Dembroski (Peter) of Columbus, OH. Also surviving are nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Rev. Teply spent the majority of his professional career as a minister of the gospel. He served churches in Loudonville, NY, Montclair, NJ, Minneapolis, MN, and Anchorage, AK. Following retirement, he settled on the Oregon coast. There, he pastored several churches on an interim basis both in Oregon and California. In his long and fruitful ministry, he led many to faith in Jesus Christ, and lovingly discipled his congregations.

Dr. Teply received his undergraduate education during wartime. His first year was spent in the WWII V-5 Naval Aviation program at the University of Nebraska. From there he received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy where he was graduated, but not commissioned, due to poor eyesight. During a brief stint as an electrical engineer, he experienced a compelling call to Christian ministry. He received his divinity degree from Princeton Seminary, and later a Ph.D from New York University.

A memorial service will be held for Dr. Teply at 2pm on Saturday, February 22nd, at Harvest Presbyterian Church, 517 Beaver Valley Pike, Lancaster, PA 17602. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit: www.DebordSnyder.com.