Samuel E. "Ted" McSorley

Samuel Edward “Ted” McSorley of Chestertown, MD passed away on August 27, 2025. He was 70 years old. He was born in Wilmington, DE on October 14, 1954, the son of the late Samuel Lodge McSorley and Dorothea (Mendinhall) McSorley. He spent much of his childhood in Wayne, PA, but his father’s employment allowed the family to move several times. Although he lived in different states including Michigan and Texas, he was always drawn to the family property, Damsite, where he spent many summers and holidays overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. He also had fond memories of his summer volunteering at Acadia National Park in Maine. Ted began his career as a marine technician, working at several local marinas with an expertise in sailboat rigging, repair, and restoration, eventually establishing his own business as the Yacht Doctor. He was known for his attention to detail in the sailing industry and was a man who could fix just about anything…or at least take a crack at it. Spending time on the water was second nature to Ted. An avid sailor, he followed in his father’s footsteps as he developed a love for log canoes. He was a steadfast crew member during the summer regatta seasons, racing on the Silver Heel for many years and then the Island Image. He also enjoyed fishing on the Chesapeake Bay but waterfowl hunting was his passion with the exception of his memorable moose hunting trip to Maine. Ted truly appreciated nature in all forms and could identify almost any bird by sight or sound. Damsite remained an important part throughout his life and was a place full of cherished memories. He believed strongly in the value of deep-rooted traditions and kept them alive by sharing them with his children such as the annual Christmas eggnog-making and roasting oysters every Thanksgiving, creating memories that will last lifetimes. Ted was well known for his sense of humor and fondness of storytelling, entertaining his children with anecdotes about their family history and his adventures getting lost in the infamous Bermuda Triangle while sailing or chasing down cattle rustlers on horseback. Never far from him was a devoted Labrador retriever. He had a quiet warmth and deep, steadfast loyalty to his family and friends, always there when needed to lend a helping hand. In addition to his wife, Kim, he is survived by his son Marshall (Melissa) of Chestertown, MD and daughter Braley (Adam) of Easton, MD; sisters, Ruth Anne Taylor of Easton, CT. and Nancy Hoffmann (Peter) of Carbondale, CO. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 27th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Church in Chestertown, MD. All who knew Ted are invited and welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, please take a trip to the water, sit outside and listen to the birds, pet a dog, and call a loved one just to chat. Consider making a donation to a charity that is near and dear to you.

Samuel E. "Ted" McSorley

October 14, 1954 - August 27, 2025