The Newport community is mourning the passing of Theodore “Teddy” Connor Upson, a 24-year-old New York State Police member remembered for his adventurous spirit, loyalty, humor and remarkable ability to form friendships wherever life took him.

Theodore “Teddy” Connor Upson Obituary-Teddy, of Graves Road, died at home on August 12, 2026, surrounded by family and friends. Although his life was far too short, those 24 years were filled with meaningful relationships, hard work, service, outdoor adventures and experiences that reflected his enthusiasm for life.

Those who knew Teddy remember him as a genuinely good person who made people feel comfortable and welcome. His friendships crossed generations and backgrounds, reflecting the warmth and character he brought into the lives of others.

Remembering Theodore “Teddy” Upson

Teddy was born on September 26, 2001, at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Hartford, New York.

From an early age, family and friendship became central parts of his life. As he grew older, his circle expanded to include classmates, coworkers, fellow outdoorsmen and many others he met along the way.

Teddy had an ability to connect with people regardless of their age or background. The large number of friendships he developed became one of the clearest reflections of the person he was.

His sense of humor, loyalty and welcoming personality meant that people did not simply meet Teddy. Many developed friendships with him that lasted.

Teddy Upson’s Education and Career

Teddy graduated from CVA in 2020 before continuing his education at Herkimer College, where he earned his degree in 2022.

Hard work was another important part of his character.

From 2016 through 2023, Teddy worked with TJ Allen Trucking. His years with the company provided more than professional experience. They also introduced him to coworkers who became close and lasting friends.

In 2023, Teddy began a significant new chapter when he joined the New York State Police.

His decision to pursue that career reflected his dedication, work ethic and willingness to serve others. It became another important accomplishment in a young life already filled with ambition and diverse experiences.

Hunting, Fishing and a Love for the Outdoors

Away from work, Teddy felt at home outdoors.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and trapping, interests that allowed him to spend time in nature while sharing experiences with friends and family.

For Teddy, those activities were about more than the outdoors themselves. They created opportunities for conversations, adventures and memories with people he cared about.

His appreciation for the outdoors became one of the many interests through which he formed lasting relationships.

Teddy’s “Puddle Jumper” and Passion for Flying

Teddy also had an adventurous side that took him beyond the ground.

He earned his private pilot’s license, an accomplishment demonstrating both his determination and willingness to pursue the things that interested him.

Teddy owned a Piper PA-11, which he affectionately called his “Puddle Jumper.”

Flying became another expression of the adventurous personality his family and friends knew so well. Earning a pilot’s license at such a young age was one of several accomplishments reflecting Teddy’s eagerness to experience life rather than simply watch it pass by.

Family and “The Boys” Were Closest to His Heart

Despite everything Teddy accomplished and enjoyed, people remained at the center of his world.

He loved spending time with family and friends and developed particularly close bonds with those around him.

At work, Teddy affectionately referred to his group of friends as “The Boys,” reflecting the loyalty and camaraderie they shared.

Those friendships became an important part of his life, providing countless stories, jokes and experiences that his friends will now carry forward.

Teddy is survived by his parents, Roy and Lisa Upson, and his sister, Alexis (Evan Stone).

He also leaves behind his grandparents, Roy and Cathy Upson of Mohawk, together with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, coworkers and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Carl and Marie Irwin of Cold Brook.

Family and Friends Mourn Teddy Upson

At only 24 years old, Teddy had already experienced and accomplished much, yet there was still so much ahead of him.

That reality makes his passing especially painful for those who expected to share many more years, milestones and adventures with him.

For his parents, sister, relatives and friends, his absence will now be noticed in countless ordinary moments.

There will be familiar places that remind them of him, stories that bring back his laughter and outdoor adventures that feel different without him.

Yet those same memories will ensure that Teddy remains an important part of their lives.

Teddy Upson Funeral and Calling Hours

Family members, friends, coworkers and members of the community will have an opportunity to gather and pay their respects.

Calling Hours
Tuesday, August 18, 2026
3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish
Our Lady of Lourdes Campus
2222 Genesee Street, Utica, New York

Funeral Service
Wednesday, August 19, 2026
11:00 a.m.
Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish
Our Lady of Lourdes Campus
2222 Genesee Street, Utica, New York

Interment will follow at Poland Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Autenrith Funeral Home in Newport.

In lieu of flowers, Teddy’s family has requested that memorial donations be made to the Kuyahoora Valley Ambulance Corps or Newport Volunteer Fire Co. #4.

Teddy Upson Leaves Behind a Lasting Legacy

Twenty-four years were nowhere near enough, but Teddy filled those years with experiences and relationships that many people spend a lifetime trying to create.

He earned an education, worked hard, entered public service, became a private pilot, explored the outdoors and built friendships that crossed generations.

More importantly, he loved his family and made people feel welcome.

His parents and sister will remember a beloved son and brother. His coworkers will remember a dedicated colleague and friend. “The Boys” will remember the laughter and camaraderie they shared, while countless others will carry their own stories of Teddy with them.

Theodore “Teddy” Connor Upson will be deeply missed by his family, friends, coworkers and the entire Newport community. His adventurous spirit, loyalty, humor and kindness will continue to live through the people whose lives he touched. May Teddy rest in peace.

Disclaimer

This obituary is based on the information available at the time of publication. Details concerning Theodore “Teddy” Connor Upson’s cause of death were not provided in the available information and should not be assumed without confirmation from his family or another appropriate source. Funeral, calling-hour and interment arrangements should be confirmed with the family, church or designated funeral home, as details may be subject to change.