Theodore "Ted" Diaz

Theodore "Ted" Diaz, 54, died suddenly at home on January 12, 2007.

Ted was an avid gardener and created an oasis of flowers at his home. He also loved to cook and served many gourmet meals to friends, as well as professionally, as a caterer. He won several awards for his cooking. Ted was well known for his gifts of cheesecakes and beautiful bouquets of flowers. He was also admired by all who knew him for his incredible courage in face of tremendous adversity. Aparaplegic, Ted was passionate about helping children with disabilities. When he lived in California he worked as a coach with these children, and took them to the special Olympics. He was responsible for bringing handicapped games to Union County in 1995.

Ted grew up in New York, lived for a number of years in Berkeley and Oakland, Calif., and moved to Blairsville almost 25 years ago. He is preceded in death by his mother, Celia Diaz. He leaves behind loved ones Reggie Lenoir and Sheila Wofsy of Suches, and Linda Bryant and Wendy Belkin of Decatur; sister, Ceil Diaz of New Jersey; and beloved companion, Shorty.

Well known for his generosity, it was Ted's desire that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to S.A.F.E., the local shelter for abused women and their children; Heifer International, P.O. Box 1692, Merrifield, VA 22116-1692, or the Humane Society's Mountain Shelter, P.O. Box 1252, Blairsville, GA 30514. Amemorial gathering will be announced.

Arrangements were handled by Mountain View Funeral Home. Condolences can be sent to www.mountainviewfuneralhome.com