From a young age, Chad Satcher desired to serve others and his community. He was active in the Boy Scouts of America, earning the rank of Eagle Scout and Vigil Honor in the Order of the Arrow. After graduating from Batesburg-Leesville High School, he joined the Circle Fire Department in 1989. He faithfully served his community over the next 35 years, becoming fire chief in January 2023.

Tragically, on September 27, 2024, Chief Satcher passed away when a tree fell on his firetruck as he and fellow firefighter Landon Cale Bodie responded to a structure fire during Hurricane Helene. His death has left a void in the hearts of many.

Although Chad was a licensed plumber with Derrick Plumbing for 32 years, his passion was firefighting. He received Circle Fire Department “Fireman of the Year” multiple times during his career. He was recognized as Saluda County Fire Service “Firefighter of the Year” in 2017 and “Officer of the Year” in 2024. As a training officer, he enjoyed mentoring the next generation of firefighters. He was committed to community safety and education and served on the Saluda County Fire Board and Fire Prevention Committee.

Most Fridays, he was at the station working on records, training, maintenance, and other tasks to improve the department. Whether you were a neighbor or a stranger, he was always willing to help. His spirit was gentle and steady. He was quiet, patient, and a friend to all. He embodied the essence of a servant’s heart.

Chad was a devoted and affectionate husband, a loving father, and a true family man. He married his sweetheart, Summer, in 2001, and their son, Will, was born in 2002. Chad and Summer built a life filled with laughter, shared adventures, and a bond that weathered life’s ups and downs. In December 2020, Chad survived a “widow maker” heart attack, which brought about a new appreciation for life and reinforced the unbreakable ties of love within his family.

Family getaways always included visiting fire departments to collect T-shirts, patches, and challenge coins. Chad took immense pride in nurturing Will’s love for firefighting, cherishing every moment spent sharing his knowledge and serving beside him in the fire department. Will follows in his father’s footsteps, carrying on Chad’s legacy of community service.

Chad is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Summer Smith Satcher; his son, William “Will” Satcher; and family and friends who will forever cherish his memory. Chief Satcher’s unwavering dedication to serving others as a firefighter and community leader and his deep love for his family will never be forgotten.