William Ted Gerlach

March 18th, 1933 - August 27th, 2024

On August 27, 2024, William Ted Gerlach passed away after several years of failing health. He was born on March 18, 1933, in Memphis, Texas. He was the only child of William Emmet Gerlach and Zola Lee Shankle Gerlach. Ted grew up in Dumas, Texas. He was a graduate of Dumas High School and Texas Tech University with a degree in electrical engineering. Ted moved to Charlotte, NC where he lived for many years and worked in textile machinery sales. After retirement, Ted and Lynn moved to Hilton Head Island, SC in 1999.

Ted, a.k.a Teddy Bear or just Bear, was known and loved by many for his dry sense of humor and wit as well as his love of red wine. Most would agree he was one of a kind.

He is survived by his wife Lynn Crook Gerlach; stepdaughter Robin Plyler Short (grandson, Scott) of Monroe, NC; stepdaughter Amy Plyler Nunez (Gus Nunez and grandsons, Wesley and Evan) of Chicago, IL, and his beloved dogs Handsome and Marley.

Services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity or to the Hilton Head Animal Shelter, 10 Humane Way, Hilton Head, Island, SC 29926.

We Entrusted William Gerlach's Care To

The Island Funeral Home & Crematory

Welcome to our gracious funeral home, where our dedicated staff provides exceptional care with meticulous attention to detail. Founded in 1981 by Allen and Nancy Richardson, we have grown to become Hilton Head's trusted choice for end-of-life care. With the addition of an on-site crematory in 1983, we are uniquely positioned as the only cremation provider on Hilton Head Island where your loved one remains in our care throughout the entire process. Our recently renovated facility offers serene spaces for reflection, private viewings, and life celebrations that honor your loved one's unique story.

Go to Website

(843) 501-9441

When words can't fully express what we want to say, sometimes a small gift can. Visit our Memorial Store for personalized gifts, keepsake jewelry and to plant a memorial tree.

Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor William’s life with a heartfelt message.

Customize Cookie Preferences

We use cookies to enhance browsing experience serve personalized ads or content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking 'Accept All', you consent to our use of cookies. Read more