William Teem IV

William “Bill” Milton Teem IV, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, educator, and man of faith, passed away leaving behind a life filled with family, learning, laughter, and service to others. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William Milton Teem III and Betty Nordan Teem. He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce “Lynn” Tatum-Teem, with whom he would have celebrated 40 years of marriage this September; his daughter, Kaitlyn (Jeremiah) Wilson; his siblings, Walter (Candace) Teem, Lawrence “Larry” (Lisa) Teem, and Mary Elizabeth Teem; his beloved grandchildren Ellanor Wilson, Beckham Wilson, Micah Wilson, and Adeline Wilson; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Bill graduated in 1977 from The Lovett School in Atlanta before attending Samford University for his undergraduate education. He later earned his master’s degree in English from the University of Virginia. He spent many years as an English professor, sharing his love of literature and writing with his students. While he enjoyed all aspects of teaching, his creative writing classes were especially meaningful to him. After his years in education, Bill began a second career as a realtor with Keller Williams in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He later retired to spend more time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who were among the greatest joys of his life. Faith and music were important parts of Bill’s life. He sang in church choirs throughout the years and enjoyed playing in the handbell choir at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, where he was also a part of the Open Circle Sunday School Class. He was an avid reader with a quick sense of humor and a gift for making those around him smile. Bill will be remembered for his love of family, his faith, his wit, his love of the written word, and the many students and others whose lives he touched. Visitation will be held August 29 at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church in McCalla, Alabama. Bill always loved a shirt with a bright color and fun pattern, so to celebrate him in a way he would have loved, guests are invited to wear bright colors and fun patterns in his honor. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Atlanta Youth Project/God's Farm, P.O. Box 455, Temple, GA 30179.

William Teem IV

December 10, 1959 - August 13, 2026