Chief Chad Satcher

 Chief Chad Satcher, 53, of Leesville, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, service, and love for his family and community. Born in Columbia, South Carolina, Chad was the son of George Lewis Satcher and the late Joye Taylor Satcher. He graduated from Batesburg-Leesville High School in 1989, the same year he joined the Circle Fire Department. Chad served with pride for 35 years, ultimately becoming Fire Chief in January 2023.

 A licensed plumber by trade, Chad worked as a foreman for Derrick Plumbing since 1992. He balanced his professional life with an unwavering passion for firefighting amassing over thousands of hours of training throughout his career. Chad was highly respected within the firefighting community, earning the prestigious title of Circle Fire Department "Fireman of the Year" on numerous occasions, including 1992, 1995, 2012, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2020, and 2022. Additionally, he was awarded by the Saluda County Fire Service as “Firefighter of the Year” in 2017. His certifications, such as Interior Structural Firefighter (1993), Firefighter II (1996), and Fire Officer I (2003), were a testament to his commitment to excellence in the fire service. Chad was deeply invested in mentoring others, serving as the Training Officer for the Circle Fire Department, and working with various other departments. He also contributed to the Saluda County Fire Board and Fire Prevention Committee, furthering his dedication to safety and education in his community.

 A lifelong servant at heart, Chad grew up attending Concord Baptist Church before becoming an active member of First Baptist Church of Leesville. Chad was not only known for his dedication to his work and community but also for being a beloved husband, father, and family man. His greatest joy in life was his family, and he cherished every moment spent with them. His love and devotion to his wife, Summer, whom he married on April 21, 2001, and their son, Will, were evident in everything he did, and his legacy of love will live on in their hearts forever. Chad and Summer were avid attendees of the South Carolina Fire-Rescue Conference, sharing a passion for learning and service. Will follows in his father’s footsteps as a firefighter, carrying on Chad's legacy of community service.

 Chad’s early years were marked by his involvement in the Boy Scouts, where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout with Troop 509 at Nazareth Methodist Church, an honor achieved by only 4% of Scouts. He was also inducted into the Order of the Arrow, reflecting his leadership and commitment from a young age. As an adult, Chad continued his service to the Muscogee Lodge as its Health and Safety Advisor. One of the greatest achievements of his scouting journey was participating in multiple expeditions to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico in 1988 and 1989, Scouting's premier high-adventure base. During the late 1990’s Chad returned to his scouting roots by becoming a Cub Scout Master with his Troop, Troop 509 at Nazareth Methodist Church.

 Surviving are his beloved wife of 23 years, Summer Smith Satcher; son, William "Will" Satcher; father, George Lewis Satcher; sister, Maria Satcher Black; as well as his niece, Emily Black (Fiance, Cameron Chavis); and twin great niece and nephew, Carleigh and Cameron, Jr. Also surviving are his mother and father-in-law, Steve and Martha Smith. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by a niece, Chloeigh; and his maternal and paternal grandparents. Chad also leaves behind many friends and colleagues who will forever cherish his memory. 

The funeral services for Chad will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at the Batesburg-Leesville High School Fine Arts Center with interment to follow in Ridge Crest Memorial Park. The Reverend Charles Leonhardt will officiate. The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday evening at the Batesburg-Leesville High School Fine Arts Center.  Milton Shealy Funeral Home of Batesburg is assisting the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the South Carolina State Firefighters Foundation, c/o Chad Satcher through PayPal, Credit Card or Venmo. If you would like to mail a contribution, please use the address: South Carolina Firefighters Foundation, c/o Chad Satcher, PO Box 211725, Columbia, S.C. 29221.

 Chief Chad Satcher’s contributions to his community will be remembered by all who knew him. His unwavering dedication to serving others, both as a firefighter and a community leader, and his deep love for his family, will never be forgotten.