http://blogs.roanoke.com/wildlife/2011/ ... 1944-2011/

Taxidermist Ted Justice of Roanoke died Tuesday.

Ted was known not only as a super skilled taxidermist, but also as an interesting character.

When you think about it, most good taxidermists are interesting characters. I guess that comes with the territory of being an artist who often works alone.

Ted’s basement shop was a sight to behold. It was filled with antlers, stuffed critters, pelts and fish, many in various stages of preparation. He was always busy but whenever I stopped by he always took time to chat.

Jim Forbes of Roanoke was among the many who considered Ted not only a superb taxidermist, but also a friend. Here’s what Jim wrote about Ted:

“He was my friend and taxidermist for way over 30 years. I spent a lot of time in his basement over the years and I can tell you he was a character. There will never be anyone like him again. I always told my wife that it was the world according to Ted after a visit with him. I have been reflecting on some of the funny pranks he pulled on others and things he said to me. He could really dish it out, which some people didn’t like too much, but I always just gave it back to him and we got along. I really laugh at some of the stuff he pulled on others.

His taxidermy skills were awesome especially with painting fish and mounting deer heads. I saw people come from all over the state of Virginia to have animals mounted. The past few years he slowed down and was just mounting some deer. I have deer on my wall that go back to 1980 and 23 all together and none has ever had any issues with cracking coming apart or any issue. He did quality work. I can’t image finding anyone else that would be able to mount like Ted, but I guess I will have to try. ”

I never had the privilege of having Ted work for me as I never killed a buck big enough to warrant taking to him. Too bad.

I’d love to hear thoughts and stories from those of you who knew him better than I did.

Thanks Brian for the headsup. Heard about Teds passing @ the gun show on Sat.

RIP Ted


Ricky

Ted mounted my first deer in '84 and I considered him a friend from then on.
He was definitely a unique individual and super talented taxidermist.
Used to enjoy dropping by his shop talking with him and looking thru the big sets of antlers he had to mount.
Ted always had some good stories of his hunting trips out west and to Alaska
Ted learned taxidermy by working with longtime Roanoke/Vinton taxidermist "Bunk" Carter.
Gonna miss you Ted. RIP.