Carlyle Teague

Born in Alamance County, NC, to the late Alice T. Teague and Reverend M. York Teague of Snow Camp, Carlyle grew up with strong values of kindness, humility, and service—principles he carried throughout his life.

A graduate of Sylvan High School in Snow Camp, Carlyle earned a Bachelor of Science degree from N.C. State University. A devoted Wolfpack fan, his ever-growing collection of red ties reflected his school pride. Carlyle’s career was deeply rooted in agriculture and cooperative leadership, beginning in 1966 at Central Carolina Farmers Cooperative in Durham, where he served as Manager of Member and Employee Relations. He later became the Director of Public Affairs at the N.C. Department of Agriculture, a role he held for 12 years. In 1981, he took on the presidency of the Cooperative Council of North Carolina, dedicating himself to strengthening cooperative enterprises throughout the state. Over the years, he also contributed his expertise to organizations such as the NC Egg Association, North Carolina Grange Mutual Insurance Company, North Carolina Horse Council, and North Carolina Specialty Foods Association.

Carlyle’s commitment to his community was unwavering. He was an active member of numerous professional and civic organizations, including the NC Farm Writers and Broadcasters Association, NC Farm Hands Club, Raleigh Public Relations Society, and NC Ag Alliance. He was especially passionate about Optimist International, serving three terms as President of the Optimist Club of Raleigh, as well as holding leadership roles as zone Lieutenant Governor and Governor of the NC East District. He had been a committed volunteer and leader at Highland United Methodist Church since 1971 and was a Life Member of Jaycees International. In recognition of his lifelong dedication to service, Carlyle was honored in 2020 with the prestigious North Carolina Order of the Longleaf Pine, the state’s highest civilian award.

Carlyle’s devotion to his wife of 61 years, Martha Waugh Teague, was admired by many. During her years long battle with Parkinson’s Disease, he exhibited unwavering love and support by tending to her every need.

Though he accomplished much in his lifetime, Carlyle will be remembered most for his kindness, warmth, and ability to make everyone feel like a friend. He was a humble man of integrity and his impact on those around him will not be forgotten.

Carlyle was preceded in death by his wife, Martha, his sisters Virginia Kimball, Laura Ann Thompson, and Louise Wilson, as well as his brothers Franklin Teague, Dwight Teague, Marion Teague, and Larry Teague.

He is survived by his son, Benton Y. Teague (Catherine Quarles), and his beloved grandsons, Bryson Y. Teague and Chase Q. Teague. He also leaves behind his sister, Martha Leona Rogers, and many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends.

A celebration of Carlyle’s life was held at Cane Creek Friend’s Meeting in Snow Camp, NC on Sunday, April 6th, 2025 with a graveside service immediately following. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Optimist Club of Raleigh or a charity of choice in his memory.

Carlyle’s legacy of kindness, service, and dedication to his community will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

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