Theodore Estridge, 93, former pastor of Grace Baptist Church, and Warrior for God, his family and his country passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday surrounded by his family. A WWII Marine veteran and Purple Heart recipient, Ted was wounded during the bloody battle of Okinawa in 1945 at age 19 and returned there 19 years later to serve as a missionary for 14 years.
He was preceded in death by his grandchildren Eric Wilson and Sarah Pettitt, he is survived by is loving wife of 72 years, Marie and his children, Carolyn (Terry) Wilson, Ted (Debra) Estridge, Wanda (Steven) Darson, and Joyce Pettitt; grandchildren Tonya (Chris) Guinn, Kelly (Chris) Isaacson, Krista (Nick) Bucceleugh, Candi (Rick) Back, Kay (Chris) McGlothen, Kyle Darson, Rachel (Dash) Cruz, and Cameron Pettitt; 11 great-grandchildren; sister Maxine Blanken; and brother Bill Estridge.
Ted had a Christian printing ministry that began in Okinawa and continued through his life. He loved sharing the gospel, studying the Bible, the Cincinnati Reds, crossword puzzles, and playing pool with his friends at the Senior Center.
Special thanks to Forever Young Senior Veterans, Hospice Family Care and nurse Michelle.
Visitation will be held at Berryhill Funeral Home on Saturday, August 17th, from 12-2 with the service immediately following at 2 pm officiated by Rev. James Kennard and Rev. Matt Ellis. Burial will be in Huntsville Memory Gardens.
