Theodora “Teddy” Bowers Clifford, 79, a beloved wife, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026 at Riverview Medical Center, Red Bank. She was a woman of remarkable warmth, wit, and grace, whose curiosity about the world and genuine interest in the people around her left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Teddy was born in Newark, New Jersey, to John Hamilton and Theodora (Scott) Bowers. She was raised in Rumson, New Jersey and received her early education at Holy Cross School in Rumson and Eden Hall in Philadelphia before earning her degree from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service — a fitting foundation for a woman who would spend her life engaging the world with intellect and open-hearted curiosity.
She married and raised four daughters and one son in Fair Haven, New Jersey, a community she deeply loved and called home for decades. Her children were among her greatest sources of pride, and she poured into them the same energy and spirit that defined everything she did. Teddy raised her children to think freely, live independently, love learning and to honor the dignity of every person they encounter.




