In loving memory of

Theodore G. Joya
July 7, 1931 - June 5, 2020

Theodore G. Joya passed away suddenly on June 5, 2020 at his home in Runnemede, NJ, at the age of 88.

Ted was the devoted father of Patricia, Karen and the late Robert Joya, a loving grandpop to Nicole Marasa (Robert) and Jared Joya, and great grandpop to Christian and Bella.

Ted graduated from Merchantville High School and Temple University. Early in his career he was employed by RCA, then for many years taught Math at Pennsauken High School until retiring in 1991. Ted was an outstanding athlete and a devoted sports fan. He received numerous awards for his skill in playing basketball, baseball, and tennis.

Due to ongoing Covid-19 health crises, services will be private. A celebration of Ted's life will be planned at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America, 375 Kings Highway North, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034.

Tributes

Wanda and Stephen Busa wrote on Jun 19, 2020:

"Sincere condolences to the Joya family. We are so sorry for your loss. "Teddy" was a great friend to Al Busa, my father-in-law, throughout the years. Al looked forward to their Friday get togethers at McDonald's and hanging out with his breakfast buddies. May the memories of happy times you've shared with this wonderful man help you to get through this most difficult time. Wanda and Stephen Busa"

David Holm wrote on Jun 12, 2020:

"He was Geometry teacher. He was great! Class of 74"

Rowland George wrote on Jun 10, 2020:

"My deepest sympathy goes out to the Joya family at your loss. i went to Pennsauken H.S. and Mr. Joya was my baseball & basketball coach from 1969 to 1972. He also was one of the greatest all around athletes in the history of South Jersey. He taught me an awful lot about how to carry myself as both an athlete - but even more important as a person. Mr. Joya had a huge impact in my life & there is not enough space here to do it justice. i can tell you that he encouraged me to pursue my baseball career : During my junior year the Kansas City Royals sent me forms for my coach to fill out / Mr. Joya shared with me what he had written & his words both gave me self confidence - but also motivated me to work hard. In 1974 I was drafted by the Kansas City Royals - I also played professionally in the Oriole's organization / I have gone on and worked in professional baseball for over 30 years as either a coach or a Major League Scout (Currently employed by The Philadelphia Phillies) I can assure you that a lot of this would not have happened had i not been coached and mentored by Mr. Joya"

Fran Cooney wrote on Jun 10, 2020:

"Patti Joya and I are good friends and loved our fathers so much. My dad, Chuck Bearint, played ball with her dad, Ted, and many many games filled our summers growing up. He was honored by the Hot Stovers and I remember him as great baseball player and so admired and loved by our family. God Bless and keep him, Fran Cooney "

Roy Sperbeck wrote on Jun 9, 2020:

"Roy Sperbeck on June 9, 2020 Played tennis with and against Ted since 1990 , He always had a great attitude and was a great player . He told me when playing doubles the court had 4 areas the opponents could only be in 2 areas on the court so hit the ball where the were not."

Marvin Hill wrote on Jun 9, 2020:

"Knew Ted for 10- 15 yrs always quite soft spoken, when he spoke you listen because there was wisdom in his words, I knew Ted as a great tennis player and with understatement, he could put you to shame on the tennis courts even at 80 Hats off to Ted, rest well I will place this obit next to "slice and Dice" bench at Atkinson Park (Bethel Mill Park" old school) Marvin Hill"

Jared Joya wrote on Jun 9, 2020:

"Rest in peace Grandpop. I am grateful for the time we spent getting to know one another. Nicole and I had heard from senior family members what a tremendously gifted athlete you were and your love & appreciation for the game. We will not forget the impression you left on us. Love, your grandson, Jared. 'Jesus said to them, "In my Father's house there are many dwelling places" (John 14: 2--4). "

Peggy Harrington wrote on Jun 8, 2020:

"Ted was my friend and neighbor. Our special interest was the computer, he was especially interested in websites involving sports. Will miss you Ted, God Bless You. Prayers for his family and friends."

Pamela Milligan wrote on Jun 8, 2020:

"Mr. Joya was my geometry teacher at PHS. I ran into him several years ago in the dollar store. He remembered my name and that I had difficulty with geometry. I graduated in 1969! Prayers for your family...?"

Charles Welde wrote on Jun 7, 2020:

"I was the world's worst geometry student (problems with spatial relations) and barely passed by cheating when I had Mr.Joya. I struck up a friendship with him watching summer league basketball at Dudley Grange and he let me know he knew I cheated but he forgave me because I loved hoops. Charles Welde PHS "69"