Theodore R. Dyson, Jr. was born March 14, 1946, in Pittsburgh, PA to the late Theodore R. Dyson, Sr. and Alice Moody Dyson. Ted had three older sisters, Dolores, Beverly, and Shaaron.
Ted graduated from West Mifflin North Senior High School in 1964 and enlisted in the United States Army. During his military service, Ted was trained as a Photo Lab Specialist serving in England. He received an honorable discharge in 1967. During his time in England, Ted met Josephine Cortez, and from that relationship, their daughter Sharon was born. Ted’s attraction to music led him to become a lead singer and guitarist in a band. He also traveled around Europe. Those musical roots were planted in high school while singing do-wop with his boys (friends). In 1969, Ted returned to Pittsburgh and enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh, and received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1976.
His love of music continued throughout his life. You could find Ted listening to his favorite Jazz, R&B, Latin, and Reggae artists. Many would often run into him at various local Jazz venues. Ted also enjoyed live theatre, movies, documentaries, dancing, and was an avid reader. If you knew Ted, you knew he loved taking photos, a good debate, and history - a subject in which he was very well versed. He would at times engage in meaningful, educational discussions with his coworkers at Duquesne Light in a setting, that at times was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. It seems Ted felt they may not have fully understood the plight of the American Indians as told from a different, more realistic perspective. Taking photos, and good conversation also carried over in his social life; many people learned a lot from their good friend Ted.
Early in his career, Ted was employed by United Airlines (Detroit), and US Steel in Pittsburgh. Ted’s career path then led to employment as a design draftsman with Duquesne Light Company, retiring in 2016 as an Engineering Technician.
Ted was also a dedicated member and past Master of Jericho Lodge #20, a Prince Hall Masonic affiliate.
Ted was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Dolores Dyson Tucker and Beverly Alice Dyson Corley.
Ted’s legacy is survived by his daughter Sharon Dyson-Carlisle (Roger); two grandchildren, Bria, and Shara, one great-granddaughter, Isla Faith Carlisle-Kavanagh, all of Leicester, United Kingdom. Additionally, Ted leaves to cherish his memory, sister Shaaron Brock (Tom A.(d) of Mission Viejo, CA, five nephews, Thomas N. Brock; Scott Napoleon; Vincent, Steven, and John Curtis Tucker; as well as a host of loving relatives and good friends.
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