Michael Lee Teafatiller

Michael Lee Teafatiller, 79, a native of Dallas, TX, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2026, at his longtime residence, the Rose of Sharon Home in St. Michael, Pennsylvania. Michael passed away quietly, surrounded by loved ones in his final days.

Born on June 24, 1947, Michael, or "Mike" as he was known to friends, was a proud Vietnam War veteran, Purple Heart recipient, and beloved teacher and coach known to many as "Coach T." After training at Camp Pendleton, California, and Camp S.D. Butler in Okinawa, Japan, Michael served overseas in the Vietnam War with the United States Marine Corps. He earned the rank of Sergeant and served as a Field Artillery Fire Control Man. A true combat veteran, he was awarded both the Purple Heart and the Combat Action Ribbon for his brave actions on the front lines. Michael carried a deep pride in being a Marine throughout his entire life.

After leaving the Marine Corps, Mike attended both Tarleton State University and the University of North Texas, where he earned his degree in education. He went on to spend more than three decades teaching and coaching within the Texas public school system, notably serving communities in Lewisville, Ore City, Henderson, Houston, and Lake Dallas. He taught many subjects over his career, notably biology, driver's education, health, government, and physical education. His students knew him as a larger-than-life personality who took his role as an educator and role model seriously. He used his influence to teach his students lessons of fairness and accountability, which many carried with them far beyond the classroom. Mike had an immense love of sports and over the years he coached football, track, and basketball. Football was his preferred sport above all others, and he coached it with great passion. On and off the field, he was Coach T. He was incredibly proud of his students and their achievements, often speaking of his coaching days with great fondness.

In his final years, Mike was lovingly cared for by his best friend, Jen, and the other compassionate caregivers at the Rose of Sharon Home, to whom the family extends their deepest gratitude.

He is survived by his brother, Larry Teafatiller of Dallas, TX; his children, Michael Teafatiller of Alvarado, TX, and Michelle Wood of Carrollton, TX; and his youngest child, Kristian Teafatiller, and wife Sienna of Smithfield, Pennsylvania, who lovingly served as his primary caregivers in Michael's final years. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jake, Lucas, Zachary, Amber, and Adam; and his great-grandchildren, Elijah, Austin, and Levi.

He was preceded in death by his parents, the late Bill "Billy Jack" and Dorothy Lee (Lawrence) Teafatiller; his sister-in-law, Kathleen Teafatiller; and his former stepson, Curtis Barefield.

In keeping with Mike's wishes, no services will be held. A private interment at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to Semper Fi & America's Fund.