Theodore "Ted" Nelson Brossoie

Reverend Theodore (Ted) Brossoie, age 93, a Presbyterian minister (PCUSA), reunited with his Lord on December 25, 2023 following a short illness. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sheila (Geagheion) Brossoie and four of his five children: Alan Brossoie (Manson, NC), Jim (deceased) and Dawn Brossoie (Hamilton, NJ), Nancy Brossoie (Radford, VA), Lori Trahan (Harrison, OH), and Nicole Brossoie (Trenton, NJ). He also leaves 17 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great granddaughter.

Ted was born on March 27, 1930 in Ogdensburg, NY to Clarence and Olive (Fournier) Brossoie and the oldest of their four children: Patricia (deceased), Kenneth (deceased), and Mary Margaret (Cookeville, TN). He was uncle to 10 nieces and nephews.

Ted graduated from the State University of New York at Albany in 1951 and for approximately 10 years, worked for General Electric in Schenectady, NY building guided missiles. During that time he enrolled in graduate studies in mathematics and engineering at Troy Engineering University. But, he felt a calling to ministry and by 1960 he switched careers and enrolled in Princeton Theological Seminary to enter the Presbyterian ministry. Upon graduation in 1961, he began his pastoral ministry at West Trenton Presbyterian Church, in West Trenton, NJ. His vibrant youth programs and his proactive community outreach during times of racial tension in the 1960’s highlight his time there. By 1969, he moved his ministry to serve as Senior Director of the Uptown Branch of the YMCA in Greater NYC, working with street gang members in Upper Manhattan.  In the 1970’s, Ted’s focus pivoted to public education. He became a certified administrator (Rider University) and served as vice principal at middle and elementary schools. He also taught mathematics and computer science. His final career move was being the first Computer Systems Manager for Ewing Township Schools, introducing computers at both educational and administrative levels.

Ted and his wife, Sheila, retired from public education in 1992 and moved from New Jersey to Rocky Mount, VA, where they were active members of Trinity Ecumenical Parish since 2003 and participated in local square and round dance groups. Ted was also an avid boater, fisherman, and woodworker, making fine furniture including four grandmother clocks. As an honorably retired clergyman, he also functioned as a pulpit supply and moderator of several Presbyterian churches in the Roanoke and Martinsville areas. For over 20 years, he also served as a Mended Hearts visitor within the Carilion healthcare system.

A private family burial service will take place immediately and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local blood bank or charity of your choice.