Theodore “Ted” Whisler, age 78, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 13, 2026 at Hospice of Central Ohio at The Ohio State University Medical Center. He was born April 21, 1947 in Mansfield, Ohio to the late Lawrence and Mary Lou (Balliet) Whisler.
Ted carried a lifelong passion for learning and education. After graduating from high school, he attended The Ohio State University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education—remaining a devoted Buckeyes fan throughout his life. He later continued his studies at Kent State University, earning a Master’s Degree in Library Science.
On June 10, 1972, Ted married the love of his life, Pennie Wilging. Together they shared 43 years of faithful and devoted marriage until her passing on February 25, 2016. Their life together was marked by a shared commitment to family, faith, and service.
Ted devoted his professional life to the classroom, serving more than 30 years as an educator with the Mechanicsburg School System. He believed deeply in the value of education and the responsibility teachers carry in shaping young lives. In addition to his work as a teacher, Ted served as the lead negotiator for his teachers’ union, working diligently to ensure contracts were fair and supportive for fellow educators. He was actively involved in the life of the school community, coaching youth sports and volunteering for numerous school activities.
Service to others was a defining part of Ted’s life from an early age. As a young man, he was a proud Boy Scout and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout In his adult years he was a scout master for Boy Scout Troop 166 in Urbana—an honor that reflected the character and leadership he carried throughout his life.
Ted’s faith guided his steps. He was a longtime member and faithful servant of Urbana First Baptist Church and Bethel Baptist Church in Springfield where he served as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, and trustee. In recent years, he attended Clear Fork Alliance Church. Ted was also a dedicated member of Gideons International, traveling to churches to share about the organization’s global mission of distributing Bibles and spreading the Gospel. His commitment to missions led him to participate in several mission trips, including journeys to Thailand and Israel.
Outside of his work and ministry, Ted enjoyed the quiet pleasures of life. He found joy in gardening, traveling, and camping in state and national parks. He was an avid student of history, especially American history, and appreciated the stories and lessons of the past.
Above all, Ted loved his family deeply. He was a steady source of encouragement and support, always willing to lend a helping hand. Being “Papaw” to his grandchildren brought him particular joy, and he shared a special bond with each of them.
His life was marked by service, faith, and an energetic dedication to the people and causes he cared about most.
Ted will be fondly remembered by his three sons, Ryan (Jennifer) Whisler, Matthew (Amy) Whisler and Michael (Megan) Whisler; his grandchildren, Brecklin (Mia), Addikin, Bella, Annie, Kinley, Makenna and Joshua; his brother, Nelson (Kay) Whisler; his sister-in-law, Vickie (Phil) Wittmer; his brother-in-law, Mark (Laura) Wilging. He also leaves behind several extended family members and a host of friends.
In addition to his parents, Ted was preceded in death by his loving wife Pennie Whisler.
Calling hours will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Friday, March 20, 2026 in the Marion Avenue Snyder Funeral Home, 350 Marion Avenue, Mansfield, Ohio 44903.
A service to honor Ted’s life and faith will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, March 21, 2026 in the Marion Avenue Snyder Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. Mike Stine officiating. An additional hour of calling will be from 10:00 am until the time of service Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Mansfield Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Gideon’s International via the following link Gideon’s International. Donation envelopes will also be available at the funeral home.
The Marion Avenue Snyder Funeral Home is honored to care for Ted and serve his family. To share a fond memory or leave a condolence please visit his obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com
Funeral Home: Marion Avenue Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com