James Bird Obituary

Ted was a friend since elementary school. I have many memories of Ted.
He is missed.

TED IS MISSED. I'M SURE HE IS WATCHING FROM ABOVE.
BE WELL JANIE.

Bill and I were best friends with Ted and Janie in Pennsylvania. Wonderful memories of the great seventies. I will be at the memorial and look forward to seeing new and old friends. Dawn

Ted was a great classmate at St. Vincents'. Loved to listen to him play his ballads.
Miss you.

Janie,

We were friends in Pennsylvania when we dated best friends Bill and Ted. I could not be more sad about this. My heart is broken for you and your family.
Best, Dawn Farlow

Dear Jane & Allyson,
I just heard about Ted's passing. I'm shocked and so saddened. My heart and prayers go out to you. Ted's music was the sound track to a good part of my 20's. I will miss him.

Dear Janie and Alyson
I'm so sorry to hear about Ted. My love and prayers go out to you's. I was just talking about you guy's today. If you need someone to talk just let me know. God Bless

Just yesterday I opened an old diary from 1975: "I met a guy named Ted and his girl, Jane, at Janice's (communal house on So. Pier Rd. in Narragansett, RI). He plays the guitar so well and likes to swap tales." The diary was full of entries about wonderful music sessions that went on till dawn in the kitchen there, with Ted, Jane, Lance and Brian, Janice, passers-through; through Ted, our lives exploded with creativity and fellowship. He was one inspiring person. I only heard of his death today and it feels all wrong. Jane, you were the light of Ted's life. So much love and so many wonderful memories, flowing your way from us...with deep sympathy. Cathy Sky, Patrick Sky

Janie,
Please accept my deepest sympathy. As reading through the guest book, you and Ted were loved by everyone you came in contact with. That is beautiful. I am so sorry for your loss.

Dear Jane and Allyson,
We were so sad to hear about Ted. Our hearts go out to you two. We hope that the great memories will bring back smiles soon and help in all your sorrows. Hugs to you both, with sadness....

Dear Jane & Allyson ~

I was deeply saddened when I learned of Ted's untimely death. Even though we were separated by time and miles, I always felt that you and Ted were right over the Breslau Bridge. He left me with a lot of great memories and laughs that I enjoyed sharing with my family.

My daughter, Megan, is relocating to Charleston, South Carolina on Saturday, September 13th. She will be calling on you with our personal expression of sympathy in the near future.

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Peace & Love,

Dear Jane and Allyson --

I'm Teddy's (we always called him that) cousin. His father, Ted was my uncle and Frank is my uncle. I am so sorry for your loss. I remember when Teddy was born -- I must have been eight years old -- I remember him being brought into his house next door with Mary and Ted. We lived in a double block as you know. We were at your wedding with Reuben, Betty and I think Frank. I will see Frank in a couple of weeks and I know how heartbroken he is. I also know what a wonderful relationship they had. I know you know what is so obvious and so often stated -- that Teddy lived the life he wanted and, although his years were cut short, his life had so much more satifaction than most. Reading the condolences gave me a feeling for the effect he had on so many people. I'm sorry I never had more of a contact with Teddy -- we go to PA twice a year and Frank would often talk about him to me.

There's a saying: "When we die, the only thing we get to take with us is what we leave behind." Teddy left a lot behind.

Though I didn't know Ted Long his presence and amazing spirit will not be forgot. One could tell that Ted was a truly happy person; happy with where he was in life, with the ones he surrounded him self with, the decisions he had made, and this positive attitude rubbed off on those around him. My thoughts and prayers are with the ones he leaves behind. I am greateful for having crossed paths with such an amazing person

Dear Jane and Allyson,
What sad, sad news. I am so sorry. I still can't believe it.
Many of the happiest times in my life was listening to Ted sing at places like Mister Ups, The Sunnyside,the BonVue, Ocean Mist... One night, after drinking a little too much, I asked Ted if I could tell him something that I never told anyone in my life. He looked a little nervous and very curious. Then i proudly announced, "I have all your records!" That was a true statement. I even bought the Made in America CD before I had a CD played. I had to go out and buy a CD player to listen to Made in America. I will always be a fan.
When Ted sang "Ain't no life better, than the life I'm livin.." he meant it. I hope we can learn from him.
Jane and Allyson, if there's anything we can do here, from RI, please don't hesitate to ask. I want to give you a hug-but I can't. Please come visit if you are ever in this area. All my love goes out to you both. Terri McKinney

Jane: My heartfelt sympathy comes your way. It's been a "long and winding road" from the Big V to Kings, "The Bitter End" and "Other End" where Ted entertained many of us throughtout our college days. He will be missed but not forgotten.
My Aunt Lucille Burns sends her condolences as well.God Bless, PEACE!

Jane,
It is Ted (& Jon) I owe big time for helping Bob get up the courage to ask me to marry him all those years ago. Our wedding was all the more beautiful with their music filling the church. As Bob and I celebrate our 29th tomorrow our thoughts will be thankfulness for all the great times we shared with Ted.
Eyes burning out of our heads from all those chili pepper fumes on Wordens Pond Rd. All the great food,
the music, the laughs, and the friendship. Teds mind was like a sponge and it always amazed us how much info he had stored there.
Our visit in February was far too short but one we will nerer forget.
Allison, you were quite young when we last saw you but from all Mom and Dad told us they could not be more proud of you.
May your memories live forever in your hearts.

Dear Janie,

I couldn’t believe when I read the paper Friday morning and saw Ted’s picture. I can’t imagine what you are going through. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

I still can picture in my mind Ted singing “In My Life,” our class song. There are so many memories of our years at St. Vincent’s. I’m sorry we lost touch with you both but every time I hear the song, I do think of you and Ted. “I know I'll often stop and think about” him “in my life.”

Dear Jane

As the news of Ted's passing started sinking in this morning, I broke down like a child. It was not until I started reading others' fond memories on this guest book, and recognizing the names of so many of the writers, that I was able to formulate this thought. Thank you for being friends and sharing so many parts of your lives with me. The youthful craziness, the music, the families, the wonderful gift of a child named Alyson, and the more somber times. Thank you.

I can only hope that I can support you and Alyson in the same manner as Ted managed to do for me during my dark times. With all my love.

My heart sank when I heard the news. It is so sad to the see the world lose another wonderful person to cancer. My chats with Ted were the highlights of my mornings. He would always walk by the carriages and stop to talk about anything and everything. He talked about how proud he was of Allyson, how smart Blitz seemed to be, and even how he believed in anything that one infomercial guy had to sell! He always had a story or some advice to offer. He will be dearly missed.
Jane and Allyson- please know that my prayers are with y'all.

I remember Ted Bird as one of the great troubadours of Wyoming Valley. Not only was his voice so pure -- how true his voice was to his family name -- he was gorgeous! with his long blond hair and great smile.

I would like to share a memory I have of Ted Bird.

I was fortunate to meet Ted some 30 years ago. He and I were the music lineup for a wedding Mass. at St. Joseph's Monastery in WB Twp. I was asked to sing because I was a family friend. Ted -- well, he was a local star. When I learned that I would be sharing the same choir loft with Ted Bird, I wanted to leave town! As I said, I was not asked to sing because of my talent! Ted knew I was nervous and he made the effort to make me feel at ease.

In addition to his stunning physical appearance, angelic voice and lyrical guitar playing, I learned first hand that he was a kind, gentle man. So genuine. Not what I expected of such a great talent.

I was sad to see Ted's obituary. But, after reading about his life, I was not surprised that he left this world so soon. He lived his life to the fullest. Loved and was loved by many. Had obviously earned the respect of many. Including me, some 30 odd years ago.

My deepest condolences to the Bird family.

Kate McMahon Churnetski

Jane/Alyson :

I'm sorry to say that I do not know either of you but I thought you'd like an observation or two about Ted's early days in Wilkes-Barre, PA.
We shared telephone calls, love of music (he took some incredible photos!), and friendly talk. He was amazingly talented, legitimately friendly and very bright. When my sister scolded me today for not telling her about his passing, I was in reflective sadness for such a great guy.

I always thought somehow he'd make it big. I have read the comments from his family, friends and colleagues, and guess what, he did!

Alexander Choman
Music Critic
Citizens' Voice Newspaper
Wilkes-Barre, PA

(Fellow classmate at King's College).

Jane and Allyson,

Just wanted you to know that we are thinking about you during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Ted was a wonderful man, a great husband, and a super Dad. Hold on to all of the wonderful memories that you have shared. Those memories will give you great comfort.

If there is anything that we can do for either of you please do not hesitate to give us a call. Both of you are like part of our family.

Terry and Woody Turner

Ted,

Neighbor, friend and ‘stand-up guy’ – I’m going to miss you. Our schedules were synchronized for an 8:30 AM departure every morning. You and Blitz…I could never work out who was walking whom – but that’s not the point. Our musical chat was more important to me than getting to work on time. So was your insightfulness.

I enjoyed our musical chats every morning. Exchanging music – or musical gossip. Who played in town or who was coming. What Delbert was doing. How will I keep up? I loved your impromptu visits to the house – either with a CD or your guitar, to play a new riff or give me a listen to a new mix of one of your songs. I felt especially good when you changed a mix or a harmony having listened to my input.

I will miss to – those beautiful downtown walks with my friends with you at the helm of a walking tour in beautiful downtown Charleston. Where on earth did you ever learn all that history? And how did you have time to meet all those characters along the way? A memorable experience.

I’ll miss too, the sound of your /5 BMW firing up in the morning. The sight of you slipping by, looking like and old dispatch rider from WW II. Your old fashioned helmet, goggles and sash bag slipped over your shoulder. A man on a mission…

I hope you your trip to music heaven was good – I will look forward to seeing you in that famous picture of all the great musicians at the best ever “Gig in the Sky”…I’ll be listening too.

God Speed my friend.

Gordon.

The streets of Charleston will not be the same without his friendly smile!
Fellow tour guide Anna Blythe

So Sorry to hear about Ted.Our Hearts go out to you at this difficult time.You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Dear Janie,
I was so sorry to hear about Teddy. He is in my fondest memories of St. Vincent's. Please know that you and Allyson are in my thoughts.

Jane,

I'm overwhelmed with sadness at the news of Ted's death, but filled with joy for the memories. He made my life so much richer in so many ways that I'll always be grateful for his friendship.

Allyson and Mrs. Jane,

I am so sorry for your loss. May the memories of Mr.Ted lead you through this difficult time. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Dear Janie and Allison
I am so sad.Ted was always a friend and had a kind funny word for everyone.I will always remember all the times the class of 68 spent together and mostly I ll smile because of him.
Love Linda

Dear Jane,
I am so sorry to hear about Teddy's passing. He is one of my first memories of first grade---Teddy, Sister Mary Alice and those wooden chairs we learned to read in. It appears that Teddy lived his life in a way that many of us wish we had. It looks like he touched a lot of people with his charm.
My family and I share your loss.

Mrs. Jane and Allyson,

I am so sorry for your loss. I truly feel like I have lost a member of my own family. But I know Mr. Ted would want us to celebrate his life. He will always be my sharp-tongued, guitar-playing, beach-loving, hippie dad! I was so blessed to have Mr. Ted in my life for 15 wonderful years. I must say that the obituary summed Mr. Ted up perfectly, he would be proud Allyson.

Please know that I have you both in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I love you both.

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Dear Janie and Alyson,
I am so sorry to hear of Ted's passing. I feel so fortunate to have had the experience of growing up with him. He was ALWAYS able to bring me to tears because I was laughing so hard. His storytelling ability was unmatched, but most importantly I remember his genuine warmth and kindness.

Ted I’ll miss you.
Whenever you were playing I enjoyed watching.
It was a wonderful experience to speak with someone that knew.
The days flew by and so did the years.
I have never forgotten the gifts you gave me.

Sweet sounding tones from a body full of adventures.
Gentle father and loving husband.
You followed your dreams right to the end.
Had others that believed in you.

That is want success is, you had it all.
Your life is a song and will go on forever.
There will be special times we’ll share again when I close my eyes.
I’ll hear your music when I choose to.

Johnny

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

To Jane, Allyson and all of Ted's family,
I am so saddened to learn of Ted's passing. I will remember him always and will hold all of you in my heart during this difficult time.
With heartfelt sympathies and much love ... arms around you.

Hello Jane, I am so sorry for your loss. I know the music scene will never be the same around Charleston. If there's anything I can do, please let me. Margo Semken

Dear Jane and Allyson,
I am so sorry to hear of Ted's passing. Jane, I will always remember your smiles and all of the joy with which you lived your life. My prayers are with you.

I have y'all in my prayers. I saw Ted everyday, usually in the A.M. before his tours and will always remember how he brightened my day. I remember when Allyson was only 6 and she'd go with him on tour. He is sadly missed by me and everyone he knew. I've known him since 1990 and he helped educate my brain with local history. He is an icon in Charleston. Everyone knows him and loves him! Love Trish Goron-Hartley. Olde Towne Carriage

Allyson and Mrs. Bird,

I'm not sure if you remember me or my family but I grew up on Folly and often spent time with you in "the neighborhood". I am so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. I remember him (and the music!) well and can only wish the best on you in this time.

My little brother, Joe, passed away in April, which makes it difficult for me to write this. No words were able to fix the sadness but the condolences let us know we had support--hopefully this does the same.

Respectfully,

Oh, Jane and Alyson, what heartbreaking news. I am so sorry for your loss. I will always remember Ted fondly and miss seeing him around town. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May God help you through this devastating time.
Love, Betsy

I didn't know Ted personally but appreciated the joy he brought to so many through his music.
God bless you & help you through this tough time.

Dear Jane and Allyson,

I'm having a hard time explaining Ted's passing to my 3-yr old son, Danny. After seeing all of you last Thanksgiving at the Vendue Inn (rooftop), we immediately bought "Made In America" on Amazon.

Danny and I continue to play that CD almost everyday...he knows all the words. He wanted to go back to Charleston to see "Charleston Ted" (as he calls him) play "Land O' Plenty" and "The Hurricane" (Danny's favorites).

His music will always live in our house and in our hearts (and I mean it). We are his biggest fans.

Ted was a man's man...the kind of guy I want Danny to grow into...no doubt about it. In many ways he was my mentor. Rock solid, committed, and reliable. When I was down, I would stop by a place he was playing and get rejuvenated by not only his music, but more importantly, by his words and demeanor.

I will never forget Ted.

Please let us know if we can be of any assistance to you.

Sincerely,

Frank, Qu, and Danny

To Ted's Family,
Please accept my most sincere sympathies. Ted was the type of guy who brought joy everywhere he went and will always be remembered as a deeply wonderful man.

Jane and Alyson,

I was shocked and saddened to hear about Ted, some of my best memories include him. I always admired him because he lived his dream with you and your daughter.

Rich Kubik

Jane & Alyson,
I join you in your grief but please know that it is impossible to remember Ted without smiling.
Neil Brazitis