Dr. Ted R. Harless

Dr. Theodore Robert Harless, age 85, passed away on June 28, 2025. Son of the late Harley and Elizabeth Harless, Ted was born on January 29, 1940, in Morgantown, West Virginia. Raised in Ohio, Ted was a standout student-athlete at Harrison High School, where he made history in 1958 as the first-ever inductee into the school's Hall of Fame—and the very first to have his jersey number retired for his football prowess. He went on to play collegiate football at both the University of Kentucky and the University of Cincinnati.

Ted graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Cincinnati. Then he pursued his passion for Dentistry, earning his DDS from The Ohio State University. He went on to serve honorably in the U.S. Navy as a Lieutenant. He was a Dentist, stationed at the Submarine Base in New London, Groton, Connecticut, where he cared for servicemen and their families.

After his naval service, Ted established a private dental practice in Georgia. Shortly thereafter, he returned to The Ohio State University to obtain a Masters in Orthodontics and returned to Georgia to establish his Orthodontics practice. He tirelessly served the communities of Marietta, Hiram and the surrounding area for an impressive forty-five years before retiring from his practice. Known for his gentle care, warm smile, and deep commitment to caring for the community, he touched countless lives through his professional skills and kindness.

Beyond Orthodontics, Ted enjoyed an active lifestyle. A lifelong tennis enthusiast, he also cherished traveling with loved ones and had a special fondness for his pets—both dogs and cats—who brought him great joy.

He will be remembered not only for his professional dedication, service in the United States Navy, athletic achievements and love for his family, but also for his zest for life, loving spirit, and the way he valued every creature—especially his beloved four-legged companions.

Along with his parents, Ted is preceded in death by his sister, Denise Harless and brother, Rick Harless.

He is survived by his wife of sixty-four loving years, Yvonne Winter Harless; daughters, Deidre Harless and Traycie (Clinton) Greeson; granddaughters, McKenzie Greeson and Natalie Greeson; sister, Diane Ludden and extended family members and friends to cherish his legacy.

A Celebration of Life to honor Dr. Ted R. Harless will be held from 930am until noon on August 23rd at East Cobb Park, Pavilion #2.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider a donation in Ted's name to St. Jude's Cancer Research.