Former Minister Theodore Satterfield Dies at 91

Ted Satterfield, a devoted minister and community leader, passed away on January 3, 2026, at the age of 91. He was born on February 13, 1934, in Iatan, Missouri, to Ella Fay and Robert Edwin Satterfield. Ted is survived by his wife, Sondra “Sandy” Satterfield, and their children, Robyn, Timothy (Letitia), and Kris Lee (Debbie). He is also survived by his sister Lois (Ron) and daughter-in-law Cindy Satterfield. Ted was preceded in death by his sons Christopher (Anita) and Michael (Anne), who cherished him deeply, and his first wife, Betty Waggoner.

Ted’s journey in ministry began at a young age. He started preaching at 16 while a student at Bonner Springs High School, graduating in 1951. He was ordained at the Edwardsville Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) on September 21, 1952. Ted pursued higher education, earning his BA from Manhattan Bible College, where he was known for his talent in ping pong, his Master of Divinity from Nazarene Theological Seminary, and his Doctor of Ministry from Lexington Theological Seminary.

Throughout his career, Ted served in various churches, including Rossville Christian Church (Rossville, KS), Clyde Christian Church (Clyde, KS), where he was part of the barbershop quartet “The Clyde Aires,” and First Christian Church (Kansas City, KS). He later worked as a Chaplin for Goodwill Industries and held a significant position with the Social Security Administration for 21 years, serving in roles such as Claims Authorizer, Supervisor, EDTS, and Chief of Facilities Management Branch. Ted also served on special assignment in Baltimore, Maryland, where he was a member of Severn Christian Church.

In his later years, Ted was the minister at Emerson Park Christian Church (Kansas City, KS), where he preached from 1992 until his death. He was also a history consultant for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Greater Kansas City, teaching History and Polity and serving on the Pulpit and Standing Committee for the region. Ted was actively involved in numerous other projects within the region.

Beyond his ministry, Ted was a member of several organizations, including DeMolay Fraternity, Freemasons, Eastern Star, the Lion’s Club, and the Rotary Club. He was invited to join MENSA International, reflecting his intellectual curiosity and dedication to learning. Ted was an avid reader, constantly seeking knowledge and engaging with a wide range of literature.

Ted’s life was marked by a commitment to service, community, and spiritual growth. His contributions to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the broader Restoration movement exemplify the values of mercy, justice, and neighbor-love. As Proverbs 18:17 reminds us, “The first to present his case seems right, until another comes forward and interrogates him.” Ted’s life and ministry reflect this principle, as he consistently sought to understand and serve others with integrity and compassion.

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