Teddy R. Curtis

Teddy Ray Curtis, age 76, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on September 22, 1949, in Auburn, Nebraska, to Ethel Criger and Delbert Curtis. He later made his home in Omaha, Nebraska, where he built a life centered on family, kindness, laughter, and helping others.

Teddy was one of fifteen children, growing up with twelve siblings in a home where love was never measured by blood alone. His mother, Ethel, opened her heart and home to twenty eight foster children over the years, teaching Teddy the importance of compassion, generosity, and caring for others. Those lessons stayed with him throughout his life and were reflected in the way he treated everyone he met.

Teddy was the devoted husband of Karen Curtis and a loving father to their three daughters, Melissa (Chris) Lyman, Tina Bennett, and Kelly Curtis. He was an incredibly proud grandfather to eight grandchildren and a cherished great-grandfather to many great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him endless joy.

Teddy worked for many years at Drake-Williams Steel, where he was known as a hardworking and dependable man. But those who knew him would probably tell you he should have been a comedian. He had a one-of-a-kind sense of humor and could make anyone laugh with his quick wit, jokes, and playful personality. He was a true jokester who loved making people smile. He never met a stranger and had a remarkable way of making everyone feel welcome. Even people who only met him once walked away remembering him and the kindness he showed them.

More than anything, Teddy loved his family. Some of his happiest moments were spent surrounded by those he loved-whether it was family cookouts, holiday celebrations, or lively poker games at home with Karen and his girls. Those moments of laughter, storytelling, and togetherness meant the world to him, and they became treasured memories for everyone fortunate enough to share them.

Teddy had a generous heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He touched countless lives through his kindness, humor, and genuine compassion. His laughter was contagious, his presence comforting, and his love for his family unwavering. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and selflessness that will continue to live on in all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life honoring Teddy will be held at Bennington public library in Bennington Nebraska on September 6 2026 from 1-3 pm.

Our hearts are broken as we say goodbye to the man who meant so much to so many. Dad, thank you for the laughter, the love, the guidance, and the countless memories. We will miss your jokes, your smile, and the way you could brighten every room you walked into. Thank you for showing us what unconditional love looks like and for always putting family first.

Until we meet again, we love you always. You will forever be missed, forever remembered, and forever in our hearts.

Celebration of life
Sunday September 6 2026
1:00 pm- 3:00 pm
Bennington public library

1:00-1:15 welcome opening prayer
1:15-1:30 eulogy's
1:30-2:00 open sharing or guest speeches family friends

2:00-2:15 photo video music to reflect tribute
2:15-3:00 food and drinks