Theodore J. "Teddy" McBride

Theodore J. “Teddy” McBride, 57, of Elizabeth Township passed away Wednesday, October 28, 2026. He was born in Pittsburgh, August 18, 1969 to the late Francis M. and Olive G. (Schmidt) McBride.

Teddy was a truly special soul whose heart was as big as his smile. Born with Down syndrome, he brought his own wonderful spirit to the world and had a beautiful way of touching the lives of everyone he met. He had a heart of gold, a spirit full of love, and the most infectious smile that could light up any room. His joy was contagious, his kindness was genuine, and his ability to make friends wherever he went was a gift that made him unforgettable.

Anyone who took Teddy to a ballgame or on an outing likely has photos of him with people who began the day as complete strangers and ended up smiling beside him. That was Teddy’s way—making friends wherever he went and leaving people a little happier than he found them. One lesson we can all carry with us from Teddy is to smile and say hello to the people we pass. We may never know how much that simple kindness means to someone.

Teddy was a patriot who loved the American flag and held a special affection for the men and women in uniform—from military service members to police officers, firefighters, and paramedics. He also loved motorcycles, and the rumble of a passing bike was sure to catch his attention and bring a smile to his face.

One of Teddy’s greatest passions was Pittsburgh sports, especially the Penguins. He adored Mario Lemieux, and a special visit to Mario’s home became one of his most cherished memories. Countless photos captured Teddy beaming in Mario’s office, surrounded by trophies and wearing Mario’s medals around his neck. By the end of the visit, nearly everything Teddy had brought or worn that day bore Mario’s autograph, signed with a brand-new silver Sharpie.

Another interest that Teddy caught on to was the collection of pop tabs. Everywhere he went, he collected them, and over time had multiple bins at multiple places in the area that would collect for him too.

Teddy grew up with so many wonderful people surrounding him that gave him opportunities to lead an independent life, like his teachers at school through the years. Sister Amota, from St. Mary’s German grade school, was one of them. Once his parents had passed away, Teddy was able to independently live in his childhood home for an additional 7 years before choosing to move in with his brother, Gerry and sister-in-law, Cindy. The family is especially grateful to Cindy, whose devoted care and love helped make Teddy’s final years full of comfort, laughter, and the warmth of home.

The family would also like to extend a special thanks to his wonderful caregivers, Cindy McBride, Gerry McBride, Dan McBride, Angelina McBride, Janine McBride, Denise Dunst, Michelle Virsack, and Elizabeth Howard; as well as everyone at Amedysis Hospice.

He is survived by his siblings, Francis X. (Janet) McBride of Emmaus, PA, Colleen (Rob) Copeland of White Oak, Regina Nimmo of Phoenix, AZ, George (Cathe) McBride of Tempe, AZ, Charles (Mary Johanna) McBride of Greenock, Mary (Roger) Scott of Lima, OH, Robert McBride of Mesa, AZ, Daniel (Janine) McBride of White Oak, and Gerard (Cynthia) McBride of Boston; Steve Schmidt, a bonus brother, who always enjoyed spending time with Teddy; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. In addition to his parents, Teddy is also preceded in death by his sister, Kathleen Murphy; and by his brother, Jake McBride.

Friends are welcome Friday, November 6, 2026 from 2–4 & 6–8 p.m. at the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, PA 15135. (412) 751-5000. Drew J. Gilbert, director.

Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at the Mary, Mother of God Parish–St. Patrick Church, 312 32nd St., McKeesport, PA 15132 (everyone please meet at church). Interment will follow at the St. Joseph Cemetery, North Versailles.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Teddy’s honor to the Mary, Mother of God Parish at 2701 Kelly St, White Oak, PA 15131. Condolences can be made at GilbertFuneralHomeAndCrematory.com.