Jake Teague

Son, brother, partner, friend - deeply loved and dearly missed.

Obituary

This is Emily, Jake’s mum.  I’ve tried my best to write this with the minimum of cringe - and probably failed.  Sorry Jake!  Anyway, here it is…..

Jake Teague left us unexpectedly on December 20, 2024, at the age of 27.

Born on January 22, 1997, Jake was a gentle person, shy and quiet unless you knew him well. Jake’s early life was spent living in Southeast London, until the family moved to Ipswich in 2006. Jake made lifelong friends at school, attending St Helens Primary School and then Copleston High School in Ipswich where he studied a number of subjects before settling on mathematics as his chosen field of further study. He was also interested in art and developed a talent for building, customising and painting Games Workshop miniatures alongside a passion for playing the Warhammer 40K game.

Naturally talented in mathematics, Jake achieved a first class BSc degree in Pure Mathematics followed by an MSc in Data Science from the University of Essex. He also established his core group of friends and met his girlfriend Gemma during his time at Essex. Never very sporty himself, his friends introduced him to Gemma through the University Korfball team social group.

At the time of his death he was pursuing a career in data analytics. Jake worked hard, from his first summer job washing dishes at a restaurant on the Ipswich waterfront, right up to his current role working for Reboot online, a search marketing agency.  He was a popular member of his team and a well respected colleague.

In his personal life he had a number of hobbies, including Warhammer 40K, Magic the Gathering, socialising with friends and spending quality time with his girlfriend and family. Recent trips abroad included Disneyland Paris, Dublin, Barcelona and Cyprus - happy times that won’t be forgotten. Close friends and family knew him to be funny and sharp and fiercely loyal and kind. He loved a night out with his friends, or playing tournaments of Magic or Warhammer - but equally enjoyed time at home resting and building his life with Gemma. Jake would often travel home to Ipswich to spend time with his parents and sister and meet up with school friends at the same time.  Just before his death he was looking forward to a family Christmas celebration at home with his mum, dad and sister, little knowing that he would pass away in his sleep without warning on the 20th December.

Jake will be profoundly missed by his beloved girlfriend Gemma, his mum and dad Emily and Sam, and his sister Rose. Not to mention his extended family, close friends, and all who had the pleasure to know him. As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the happy life he lived and the joy he brought into our lives. Rest in peace, dear Jake.

Further information 

The funeral service will take place in Ipswich on Monday 3rd February at 10.45am, Ipswich Crematorium.  We will hold a wake at the Westerfield Swan afterwards.  To help predict numbers, please RSVP at the bottom of this page.

Dress code - come as you are.  Don’t buy a suit or dress up if you don’t have anything formal - your presence means the most. Equally, if you need to wear black tie go ahead!  No rules.

No flowers please - the family will be making a donation to our local food bank instead.  Please feel free to donate to your local food bank in place of flowers, but again, not compulsory.

Gallery

Videos

Memory wall

May 11, 2025

I knew Jake through my time at University, where we both studied Maths together.

It's strange. It's been a few years now since I last spoke with Jake, but just the other day I met up with a mutual friend of ours from our time at Essex, and I brought up Jake, saying how he'd popped into my mind and I wondered what he was up to nowadays.

A few days later I spoke to one of our lecturers, and was floored when he told me the tragic news. It really caught me off-guard. Since then, I've been trying to think of something meaningful to say, but situations like these always tend to leave one without words. Still, here's my attempt.

Whilst I mostly knew Jake from lectures, his circles overlapped with mine, so I got to know him as a friend, as well. And for that, I will be forever grateful. Despite his timid-at-times nature, Jake always had a tightknit, intimate group of people around him, who I'm sure he cherished as much as they cherished him.

When I would run into Jake on nights out, he would always be laughing and smiling with them, and even though I'm sure my personality was a bit over-bearing for him - as it is many - he always welcomed me in, introducing me to his friends and never failing to making me feel included. I'll always look back fondly on the numerous Monday nights spent with him and his friends, bundled up in a South Towers kitchen, staying up until silly hours in the morning making food together.

Whilst my time with Jake was limited, spanning the three years I spent at Essex, I feel certain that the person I got to know during that period was the authentic version of Jake that all these other comments write about so fondly, and I take comfort in knowing I was able to experience that.

The world will forever burn a little less brightly without his presence in it.

Rest in peace, Jake Teague.

Ryan Hornsby

April 25, 2025

We were gardening recently and I was remembering playing with Jake and Rose racing along in wheelbarrows and on our (mine and Zak's) shoulders, while camping at Acres, and also watching Thomas the tank engine videos many years ago. Thinking of you still.

Jessie Teague

February 4, 2025

Thank you for sharing your ceremony for Jake on line yesterday.
The ceremony was very touching. It was a beautiful service, filled with wonderful memories and words.
I hope the day gave you some comfort.
Our thoughts are with you all.

Lisa & Tony Jackson

February 4, 2025

Sending my sincerest condolences to Jake's family and friends. Whilst I was working in the University's partnerships team, Jake was a wonderful, helpful colleague, and I always wished the best for him in his career in Data Analytics. Incredibly sad to hear of his passing: may he rest in peace <3

Victoria Fontenelle

February 4, 2025

To all his friends and family.

I pray that God's wonderful counsel and excellent guidance shall be the stability of your days starting from today, giving you the strength to bear this loss

Wunmi

February 3, 2025

My condolences to Jake's family. May his soul rest in peace.

Kenny Ann

January 28, 2025

I am Gemma's friend and from the moment I met Jake, I felt completely at ease knowing she was with such a genuine, sweet and caring person. I remember meeting Gemma and Jake for dinner and seeing the way they lit up around each other, it was really special to see. I was looking forward to spending more time with Jake this summer at our friend's wedding events, my partner is an introvert and I thought her and Jake would get on really well. He was so incredibly loved and its clear how much joy he brought to people's lives. It was an honour to have met him, he won't be forgotten x

Muna

January 21, 2025

I had the privilege of working alongside Jake at Reboot, and in that time saw just how intelligent, kind and exceptional he was.

Jake was a go-to for any data-related challenge, and always full of ideas and a reassuring calmness that instilled confidence in his team. I will miss working with him, as will the entire company.

Sincere condolences to all of his friends and family.

Oliver Sissons

January 20, 2025

Many years ago I was blessed to live close by and regularly see and look after my young Nephew and Neice, Jake and Rose. They and my daughter, Jessie, were so close we all said they were almost like siblings. I have so many memories of the 3 of them having great times, messing about, inventing games and laughing.
Jake particularly enjoyed playing in the paddling pool and playing Let's Get Ready To Rumble on the PS1. Big grins from that curly haired, easy going cherub.
Then we moved far apart and lost the closeness, which I'm forever sad about. It's many years since I saw Jake, but I've always enjoyed hearing how incredibly well he was doing in his life.

And thus he shall remain; charming and kind and funny and clever Jake.

There aren't any words that can help the agony Jakes's close family are going through. Our heads reel at this horror and our hearts bleed for you all.

Jake, you will shine on forever, in our memories and hopefully, who knows, in your very own consciousness. Well done for a life well lived.

Amy Teague

January 13, 2025

I'm Emily's mum (Frances). Jake was my first grandchild. When I went into work the day after his birth, my colleagues had all signed a congratulations card "Frannie the Granny" and I have been known by that name now for nearly 28 years. When Rose was born just short of 2 years later I did a birthday party for Jake on my birthday (2nd February), complete with a Telly Tubbies cake. We kept up celebrating my birthday every year after that until we moved to North Wales. But this year tragically it is the day before Jake's funeral. How will we all survive this terrible, tragic death of such a wonderful young man? He will be greatly missed and never forgotten. As a family we have lost a precious member who can never be replaced.

Frances and Andrew Hall

January 8, 2025

We remember the lively young child with the curly brown hair who
grew into the handsome young man in the photos. We admjred his achievements at university. His life was opening up for him in this career and personal life. It is a tragic loss.

Stella and Richard Leigh

Stella and Richard Leigh

January 7, 2025

I am Jake’s first cousin, once removed so Jake was like a nephew to me. We have always lived far from each other, so I saw Jake grow up through glimpses at various family gatherings, as if in a speeded up film; firstly as a cute toddler, next as tall teenager, and then a fine young man. Each time I saw him he was warm, friendly, and enthusiastic and engaging , a pleasure to be around. The last time I saw him was in London when I visited last summer, I was very glad he made the effort to meet up with me, together with Emily, Sam, and Jamie. I could never have guessed that he would be departing this life so soon. I will miss him, and he leaves a great void in the lives of those closest to him.

Nothing Gold Can Stay 
Nature's first green is gold, 
Her hardest hue to hold. 
Her early leaf's a flower; 
But only so an hour. 
Then leaf subsides to leaf. 
So Eden sank to grief,
So dawn goes down to day. 
Nothing gold can stay.

by Robert Frost

Alan James Baker

January 7, 2025

What to say? I will miss Jake every day for the rest of my life. We are so grateful he is our son, and loved looking after him and seeing him grow into such a fine man. It still seems unbelievable that he is gone so soon.

The messages on here are so beautiful, thank you all

Emily Teague

January 5, 2025

We got to know Jake through Gemma, and what a joy that was. Jake and Gemma lived a joyous life together and really were the best couple, supporting each other and sharing many adventures together. We've spent happy weekends with them involving good food and fun games. Jake and Gemma were invited to our wedding this year and Jakes first question was if the castle had swords and arrows, or if he'd have to bring his own. We were going to try and incorporate them somehow, and now it will be in memory of Jake; the kindest, funniest, person, someone we came to call our friend.

Grace and Lorcan

January 4, 2025

Jake was three and a half years younger than me, and I had the privilege of having some of my childhood growing up with Jake and Rose nearby.

In the years since we've been more distant but I think of them and wish them both well often. My last memory was playing Carcassonne together with Jake, Sam, Ken, Louise and Esmerelda. It was lovely.

There aren't the right words, there never are when this happens. I'm sorry. Will still be thinking of you Jake, and sending my love to you all Rose, Sam and Emily.

I'll add some childhood memories and photos, shortly.

Jessie Teague

January 2, 2025

i never knew Jake. Being friends with his lovely Mum I’ve been thrilled to hear all about him, his lovely nature, his triumphs and achievements, life with lovely Gemma as Emily always calls her and ,his love for his family I do know how treasured and loved he is and how missed he’ll be. A fine young man that sadly i never got the chance to meet

Julie Walters

January 2, 2025

I didn't know Jake as an adult but its no surprise and beautiful to read how that lovely smiling boy grew into a lovely smiling man. I know how proud Emily and Sam are of his achievements and how much joy and love he brought them ❤️

Emma

January 1, 2025

Remembering many happy family occasions and camping trips with Jake. On one of the camping trips we bribed Jake with a £5 note to successfully ride a bike. He grew into being such a lovely, polite and intelligent young man. Our whole family will sorely miss him.

Clive and Lorna Jones

December 31, 2024

Jake, a beloved and valued member of Reboot passed away leaving behind a legacy of brilliance, quiet dedication, impeccable work ethics and respect that touched and impressed all who had the privilege of working with him.
For the past three years, Jake served as a Data Insights Specialist where his intelligence, expertise, and meticulous attention to detail made a lasting impact on our team and clients. His contributions helped drive the success of many projects.
He leaves behind not only a wealth of knowledge but also a huge gap in his team that will be deeply felt by everyone at Reboot Online.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Jake’s family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be remembered with great affection and respect. x

Naomi & Shai

December 31, 2024

All memory,
The starlight,
All memories
Of life
However long or short
Are immortal
As is consciousness.
My fondest memory of Jake is him
Bouncing with glee,
Aged about 3
As he encountered
A piano.
He was always a gentleman
Sharp of mind and wit.
Journey on dearheart
Journey on.

Ken David Shapley

December 30, 2024

I lived with Jake and Gemma in Colchester a few years ago. My favourite memories of that year by far were the games nights we would have as a four. Jake, you showed no end of patience explaining all the rules, you made it so much fun, and I wish now that there had been more of those times. Thank you for those memories.
Thank you also for being a fantastic friend to Lukas and George, I’m genuinely grateful for the friendship you shared. Your friendship was unique and treasured, and I know you all knew how much you meant to each other. You’ll always be 1 of 3.
All my love to Gemma, your family and friends x

Hannah Gill

December 30, 2024

So saddened to hear of Jake’s passing. Fond memories of him and the children playing. Curly hair, beautiful smile. Enjoying being in nature. - creating tunnels through the brambles and wrapping themselves up in an old rug and rolling down the hill! Love and strength to Sam, Emily, Rose and Emma xx

Ness Del Rio

December 29, 2024

What a guy, you always could tell what sort of person someone was by what they'd say about Jake, because he was the nicest person you could meet, impossible to say a bad word about him!

Had the privilege of being friends with him since high school, devastated about how things turned out between us, but will always have him in my thoughts and cherish the memories we shared.

Greatest painter/converter of his loved hobby warhammer that i have ever seen, his work was always an inspiration.

Alex Bowman

December 29, 2024

He meant alot. And I have good memories of him, I wish you guys all the best. My condolences

patrick mcguchan

December 28, 2024

How to sum up my memories of Jake? We've been friends for so much of my life that I don't really remember exactly when or how it started.

I know we met early in high school and that Jake was kind, loyal, and both extremely creative and imaginative. We both loved all sorts of games and became strong friends over many a game and chat over a Warhammer table. While gaming he was always a clever and tactical player while also humble both in victory and defeat, so no matter the result it'd be a lot of fun for everyone.
His creative side showcased itself fully in the beautifully grotesque miniatures he created, at their best most people would be lucky to have even half his skill in sculpting and painting.

Even when we could only manage to catch-up every few months between work and life, we would without fail pick things up just where we left it. Whether joking around or being a bit more serious Jake always listened and empathised with people, he was a beacon of positivity in every conversation.
He is greatly missed in my life as well as so many others.

Rest in Peace Jake

Michael Curtis

December 28, 2024

I had the privilege of working with Jake for over two years. When I joined the team three months after him, he went out of his way to help me settle in. We often chatted about games and anime, exchanged memes, and shared plenty of laughs. I considered him not just a colleague but also a friend.

Rest In Peace Jake.

Sebastian Drinnan

December 28, 2024

I have many fond memories of Jake, playing DnD and Warhammer, and the holidays our families spent together. He was a good friend, and I admired the skull and patience he put into his painting, and the kindness he had for others. I am happy for the success he had at uni. He left us far too soon.

Joe McGuchan

December 28, 2024

I had the pleasure of working with Jake for the past two years. He was not only very intelligent and talented at his job, he had great wit and sense of humour. He was great company and will be sorely missed by all.

I want to offer my sincerest condolences to all his family and friends.

Rest in Peace Jake x

Paul Lapham

December 27, 2024

What an incredible young man I’m proud to have called my godson. Your beautiful life filled with love and a generous spirit that touched so many people around you. You’ll remain forever in my memory as that gentle little boy with amazing curls. Rest in peace now Jake. Xx

Georgia Long

December 27, 2024

I have many happy memories of our families camping together, it's so sad that I won't get the chance to follow your journey further, but I'm grateful you were part of mine. Rest in peace x

Matthew

December 27, 2024

The images of Jake l have in my memories are always of his smiling face, like he had a private joke going on in his mind.
We will all miss what would have been his future.

Maria

December 27, 2024

It’s wonderful to see photos of Jake, I remember his cheeky cheeky smile as a youngster, his smile it grew with him 💖

Nicci del Rio

Service