David Tedder

Mr. David Tedder, son of the late James and Octavia Tedder, was born on December 14, 1936 in Durham, NC. He departed this life on Friday, March 14, 2025. David graduated from Hillside High School where he played trumpet in the marching band. He furthered his education by earning a Bachelor of Science degree from North Carolina Central University, NC. His early exposure to music through the trumpet remained a significant part of his life, as he enjoyed playing Taps on his porch on Memorial Day in his retirement. He was also a member of White Rock Baptist Church and part of the choir before his move to Detroit in 1968. Throughout his life, David was known as a hard worker and an asset to his employers. His diverse work experiences before venturing into entrepreneurship included: • Dillard's BBQ, Durham, NC • North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Co., Durham, NC • North Carolina Central University Mail Room and Print dept. manager, Durham, NC • Great Lakes Mutual Printing/Graphics dept. manager, Detroit, MI • HF Campbell Construction Co.Printing/Graphics dept. manager, Detroit, MI In 1979, David realized his entrepreneurial aspirations and founded Tedder's Printing Co. in Detroit, MI. He successfully ran his own business until his retirement in 1998. Family was central to David's life. He was the devoted spouse of Jennifer McCormick Tedder for 68 years. Together they raised two children, Maurice and Gwenevere. He was a loving grandfather to Melody Mercer and a great-grandfather to Madison Mercer. His dedication to his family was evident in 2004 when he received a Certificate of Bravery from the Detroit Police Dept. for protecting his family during a mugging at gunpoint at their Detroit home, even chasing after the gunman to recover his wife's belongings. In his retirement, he cherished spending time with his family, as well as listening to his records and swimming. The inclusion of "Family pics" in the service program and the designation of "Family & Friends" as pallbearers and flower bearers further highlights the importance of these relationships. The "Special Letter from Mom 'Octavia'" in the Order of Service also underscores the enduring significance of his family ties. He leaves to cherish his memory and mourn his loss, his wife Jennifer McCormick Tedder; daughter Gwenevere Tedder of Southfield MI; son Maurice Tedder of Detroit, MI; grand daughter Melody Mercer of Detroit, MI; great grand daughter Madison Merer of Detroit, MI; two sisters, Mrs. Octavia Thombs and Virdell Robbins of Rochester, NY; one sister in law, Shelvajean McCormick of Durham, NC; nine nieces; and four nephews. David was preceded in death by his parents, James and Octavia Tedder, and one brother, Louis Tedder.

David Tedder

December 14, 1936 - March 14, 2025