First Sergeant (Ret.) Mark Teal, 53, passed away unexpectedly on June 1, 2026. Born in Fort Meade, Maryland on May 6th, 1973, he dedicated his life to serving his family, his Soldiers, and his nation.

A proud graduate of Glen Burnie High School, Anne Arundel Community College, and the University of Maryland Global Campus, Mark built a distinguished career in the United States Army marked by exceptional leadership, selfless service, and an unwavering commitment to those entrusted to his care. 

Throughout his military career, he served with distinction in numerous assignments, including USAREC Mid-Atlantic, where he found particular fulfillment recruiting and mentoring the next generation of Soldiers. He also served with Mine Counterintelligence, ARCAV Division Headquarters, MINATL Group, and ARHHC. Whether leading formations, counseling young Soldiers, or supporting his fellow leaders, he was known for genuinely caring about those around him. His Soldiers knew him as a leader who always put their welfare first and never hesitated to lend a helping hand. 

While his professionalism and dedication earned him the respect of his peers and subordinates alike, it was his personality that left a lasting impression. Down-to-earth and approachable, he possessed a quick wit and an infectious sense of humor. He always seemed to know the right joke to lighten the mood, bringing laughter to even the most challenging situations while maintaining professionalism and respect. 

Following his retirement from the Army, Mark continued his lifelong commitment to public service with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), where he remained dedicated to helping communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. But his primary focus was on protecting the agency from insider threats. 

Above all else, Mark was devoted to his family. He cherished camping trips and time spent outdoors with his wife and children. His greatest joy came not from accolades or achievements, but from making memories with those he loved most. 

One of the most treasured chapters of his life was his love story with his wife. Though they were best friends in high school, life took them on separate paths before bringing them back together years later. Their friendship became the foundation of a loving marriage built on trust, laughter, and companionship. They remained best friends throughout their life together. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth, his three children, Zakary, Ryanna and Ryan, his parents, Jay and Breda, his sister-in-law Jennifer and his nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his cherished in-laws, John and Mary Ann Strawbridge; brothers-in-law Marty, John and Shawn; sisters-in-law Mary Ellen, Alison and Marissa; and his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Gary whose loss earlier this year was deeply felt by the entire family. 

Mark’s legacy lives on in the Soldiers he mentored, the communities he served, the family he cherished, and the countless lives he touched through his leadership, humor, and generosity. He leaves behind an enduring example of service, integrity, and love that will continue to inspire all who knew him. May he rest in peace, and may his memory forever be a blessing. 

At the time of service, click HERE to view the live stream