Theodore Merrill Small

Born in New Bedford on September 25, 1931, Ted was a devoted husband, loving father, respected educator, and decorated military officer. He was happily married to Shirley Amarantes Small for 69 years, and together they built a life of love and service.

Theodore was a proud father to Deborah Tinay, Mark Small, Susan Small, Nancy Miller, Kathryn Nadeau and six grandchildren.

He graduated from New Bedford High School and pursued higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Nebraska and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts.

His commitment to service led him into a distinguished military career. He began via ROTC, served as a company commander in the Korean War, and later commanded the Fort Rodman Army Reserve Training Station in New Bedford from 1962–1964. He went on to serve as an advisor to the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) during the Vietnam War. Among his many honors are the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, eight Air Medals, and the National Defense Service Medal.

After retiring from the military, Ted transitioned into education, becoming principal of Dartmouth High School, a position he held until his retirement in 1986.

Beyond his professional and military achievements, Ted had a lifelong passion for the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman from an early age and loved chasing big “stripers” and trout and sharing his thoughtfully made lures and fly fishing flies.

He served as a mentor to many — passing on his skills, adventurous spirit, stories and his love of nature to friends and younger generations.

In retirement, Ted and his beloved Shirley spent many happy years enjoying life on the West Coast of Florida, where they embraced sunshine, visits from family and each other’s companionship in their later years.

Ted will be remembered for his unfailing love for his wife Shirley, his overwhelming generosity, his faith and service to his country.

A memorial service will be held at Seamen’s Bethel in New Bedford on Saturday, November 15th at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Mercy Ship Ministries are welcome and appreciated.