Dr. Frederick "Ted" Tims

It's with a heavy heart that I write these words about my father, Dr. Frederick "Ted" Tims, who left us with a lifetime of cherished memories on April 7, 2025. Born on June 15, 1939, in Shenandoah, Iowa was a beacon of ambition and compassion. His empathetic nature shone brightly in all he did, whether it was within our family, the work within the Church or during his illustrious career as a Music Therapy Professor. His work was more than a job to him, it was a calling, a way to use music to touch and heal souls.

Ted found his love of music when he was young taking piano lessons and playing piano and organ in his church. He received many degrees and loved being a student. He received degrees from Hendrix College, University of Iowa, Michigan State University and University of Kansas. He was a professor at Blue Mountain College, Eastern New Mexico University, Colorado State University, University of Miami, and Michigan State University. He was always involved in committees throughout each University, such as Faculty Senate and was President of the National Association of Music Therapy (now known as the American Music Therapy Association). He and Sue were also Resident Masters for Hecht Residential College at the University of Miami. Throughout his career, he was a supportive mentor, guiding countless students and colleagues alike. His two passions were teaching and Music.

Ted's ambition was not limited to his professional life; he was a devoted husband to Sue, his loving wife of 59 years. Their bond was a testament to his supportive and understanding nature and she accompanied him to most of the locations for his education or profession.

In 2012, Ted and Sue retired to Gainesville, FL, because it was warm (but not on the coast due to Hurricanes), good health care, near a kid (Curt is in Jacksonville, FL) and most importantly, it was a University town.

Ted was a pillar of strength and solace for our family. He leaves behind his beloved wife Sue, his son Curt Tims, daughter-in-law Christie Tims, daughter Emily Rittenhouse and son-in-law Dan Rittenhouse. He has 4 grandchildren; Lauren, Alexis, Dorian, and Dalton. He has 2 great grand children; Cooper and Remi. He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred Sr. and Estella Tims. Our father lived an extraordinary life, and his legacy will continue to inspire and influence us all.

As we remember Ted, let's celebrate his life and the profound impact he had on us all. Services will at the First United Methodist Church, Gainesville at 419 NE 1st Street Gainesville, FL 32601 on Saturday, April 12th at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, we would ask that you make a donation to the First United Methodist Church Gainesville to help more students and adults find and express their passion for music.

We invite you to share your precious memories and upload photos to the memorial page, creating a tapestry of love and respect for a man who touched so many lives. In the words of Plato, "Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything." This truth was embodied in the life of our dear Ted, an unforgettable melody in the symphony of our lives.

You may view the livestream of his service at https://first-united-methodist.subspla.sh/fyrvs29