Teddy Jack Cantrell

Teddy Jack Cantrell of McKinney, Texas, passed away on November 27, 2025. Ted was born on June 20, 1953, to George Ray Cantrell and Miriam Gwendolyn Cantrell, also of McKinney. He graduated from McKinney High School in 1971 and went on to attend Baylor University in Waco, proudly earning his degree in 1975.

He loved to give back and serve his community. Ted served as Board President of the Samaritan Inn and spent countless hours investing in others through Brookhaven Church. At Brookhaven, he was a deacon for nearly 30 years, taught youth in large group settings, poured into students through music ministry and VBS, and faithfully led new-member classes and small groups. He was also a founding member of LifeBridge Church, the McKinney satellite location of Brookhaven, which ultimately paved the way for the church to relocate and merge into one growing community.

Ted worked for Northwestern Mutual Life for 50 years, earning great respect in his profession and forming relationships across nearly every corner of the Dallas metroplex.

In the early years of his life, nothing brought him more joy than playing 3-on-3 basketball with his brothers and friends, winning his division of Dallas' Hoop It Up tournament three years in a row. As life progressed, he shifted that same passion into treasure hunting and antiquing, searching for unique finds everywhere from the fields of Canton to the markets of England. Ted was also an avid sports fan, and nothing delighted him more than cheering on the Baylor Lady Bears. Win or lose, he watched faithfully, never missing a chance to support his beloved team, always with a heartfelt, "Sic 'Em Bears!"

He was also a gifted and creative artist, showcasing his work in multiple galleries and creating many of the pieces that adorn the walls of Brookhaven Church today.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Rae Ann Altwater. He is survived by his loving wife, April L. Cantrell; his three sons, Ben, Adam, and Cody Cantrell; and two cherished grandchildren, Charlotte and Eleanor Cantrell.

Above all else, Ted loved his family deeply and lived every day with a servant's heart. His humor, creativity, and unwavering faith touched all who knew him. He leaves a legacy of generosity, joy, and steadfast devotion to Christ, one that will continue to inspire his family, friends, church, and community for years to come. Though he will be greatly missed, the impact of his life and the love he shared will remain forever in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at Brookhaven Church, 6101 Stacey Road, McKinney, Texas 75070. Please direct any floral deliveries to the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that charitable donations in Ted's honor be directed to his beloved church, Brookhaven Church.

Livestream to service: https://boxcast.tv/view/celebrating-the-life-of-ted-cantrell-jl9aacm35j2mpehiwx38