Theodore Burton Hart

Born July 21, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan, to Perry and Lillian Hart, Ted grew up in Battle Creek, Michigan on a family farm with brothers Danny and Timothy. With modest means, after graduating from Union City High School he worked two years as a US Postman to save for college, then graduated from Michigan State University in 1967 with an Engineering degree, a shining example of his grit and drive.

At MSU, while working as a busboy at the Alpha Delta Pi sorority house, he met the love of his life, Bobbi. They married December 18, 1966, in Silver Creek, New York, and soon moved to Fort Worth for Ted’s engineering job at General Dynamics.

In 1973, Ted earned a master's in computer technology from Texas Christian University and immediately joined Electronic Data Systems (EDS), diving into the cutting edge of computer technology. EDS was revolutionizing the IT industry in the early 1970s with innovative long-term facilities management contracts, early Medicare/Medicaid claims processing in Texas, distributed processing systems, and expansions into insurance and credit unions. Ted thrived in this dynamic environment, helping shape efficient, powerful computing solutions for businesses.

Ted and Bobbi raised son Christopher Hart and daughter Marianne Black (married to Lance Black) in Plano, Texas, creating a joyful family life. They loved the country club life of golf, swimming and tennis, were deeply involved at First Presbyterian Church Plano, and treasured neighborhood block parties and bridge nights on San Saba Court. Ted was always camera-ready, capturing every smile and moment.

A fully hands-on dad and grandpa, Ted cheered Chris and Marianne through youth swimming, soccer, and dance. His grandchildren, Tyler and Brooks Hart, Madeline and Carson Black, were his greatest delight. He shared with them endless stories and advice; savored orange floats together; popped in for school lunches; listened to records in the garage; carved pumpkins; hosted Grandpa's Golf Camp and made every birthday and holiday magical.

In retirement, Ted and Bobbi reveled in travel and cruising. A lifelong athlete, he competed in local and national Senior Olympics running and cycling events starting at 55, thriving with dedication and spirit. At 70, he became a personal trainer at Frisco Lakes Community (their home since 2003), inspiring residents with his boundless energy. He celebrated that birthday with an exhilarating skydiving jump, pure Ted.

Ted was the life of the party: outgoing, fun-loving, and always ready to light up a room. He joyfully shared his deep faith in Jesus Christ, offering encouragement and testimony that touched countless hearts. He was also passionately involved in his community, contributing to local governance and neighborhood leadership at Frisco Lakes.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Bobbi; son Chris Hart (engaged to Taz Mioch); daughter Marianne Black (and Lance); grandchildren Tyler, Brooks, Madeline, and Carson; and a wide circle of family, friends, church family, and Frisco Lakes neighbors blessed by his enthusiasm and kindness.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Perry and Lillian Hart, and brothers Danny and Timothy.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Theodore's name to Texas Christian University https://advancement.tcu.edu/new/onlinegiving/tribute or Meals on Wheels of Collin County https://www.mealsonwheelscc.org/

A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 1:00 pm Stonebriar Community Church located at 4801 Legendary Drive, Frisco, Texas 75034.

Ted’s legacy sparkles in every captured memory, his unstoppable zest for life (from US Postman to skydiver at 70), the faith he shared boldly, the love he gave freely, and the family and community he lifted up, especially his lifelong adventure with Bobbi and the joy of his family.

He will be deeply missed, but his spirit dances on in every laugh, story, workout, and moment of faith.