James A. Satterfield

James A. Satterfield, 91, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on November 8, 2025.

He was born on February 27, 1934 in Six Mile Run, a son of the late William Clair and Roxie Mae (Bussard) Satterfield.  James lived a long and faith-filled life dedicated to his family, his students, and his church community. He was first married to Joyce (Putt) Satterfield, who preceded him in death in 2004. Later, he was blessed to share his life with his second wife, Merla (Mosebey) Shaal Satterfield.

James was a devoted mathematics educator with 35 years of service, teaching at Gettysburg and later at the Tussey Mountain School District, where he retired in 1993. A graduate of Saxton Liberty High School, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Shippensburg University and later his Master’s Degree from the University of New Mexico.

A faithful member of Raystown Brethren Church in Saxton, James was very active in ministry over the years—teaching Sunday School, leading youth and young adult groups, and hosting home Bible studies. Guided by his deep faith, he also enjoyed writing poetry, publishing a book titled “The Way Maker.”

James and his wife Merla loved spending winters in Bonita Springs, Florida, where they opened their home to friends for Bible studies and card games. His life was a testament to his love for God and others, marked by kindness, humility, and joy in service.

He is survived by his children, Keith Satterfield (Terry Ann) of Altoona, PA, and Trisha Tenley (Jeff) of New Hampshire; grandchildren Richelle Rafferty (Ryan), Joshua Tenley (Jessica), Shonda Pecor (Cory), Sierra Satterfield, and Kethan Satterfield; and great-grandchildren Sadie, Sarah, Rylie, and Sawyer Rafferty; Kylie, Kaelyn, Lorelai, Lydia, Addilyn, and Jase Tenley; and Isaiah Pecor; a foster sister Lucy Stroud.  Jim was blessed with extended family: his stepchildren Tim Shaal (Christine), Jonathan Shaal, and Andrew Shaal (Tiffany); and step-grandchildren Samuel and Elizabeth Shaal.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Robert G. Satterfield.

Family and friends will be received at Akers Funeral Chapel, 715 Church Street, Saxton, on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 6–8 PM, and again on Saturday from 10 AM until the hour of service at 11 AM. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, November 15, at 11 AM, with Pastor Jeff Tenley officiating. Burial will be held privately at Bunker Hill Cemetery.

If friends so desire, memorial contributions may be made to Raystown Brethren Church, 129 Winterberry Lane, Saxton, PA.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.akersfuneralchapel.com.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

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