Josh and Chelsea Sadler lost their beloved three-year-old son, Declan, who was nearly four, in a tragic accident.
Declan Vance Sadler, 3, was a passionate young baseball player who played for the Bristol Little League Cubs.
He had just completed his first season of T-ball and was excited to continue his journey in the sport.
He was a bright and adventurous child who loved the game and enjoyed spending time with his teammates.
Beyond baseball, Declan had a variety of hobbies. He loved Jesus, pajama days with his mother and father, and had a deep fascination with monster trucks, trains, dinosaurs, fire trucks, and Mario.
Declan also enjoyed playing with Hot Wheels, going on rides at Dollywood, spending time outside, swimming, blowing bubbles, playing with balloons, and eating chicken nuggets.
He was a proud fan of the Georgia Bulldogs and had just mastered potty training, an achievement he was incredibly proud of.
His adventurous spirit and curiosity made him a joy to be around, and he loved spending time with his family and pets.
Tragically, Declan passed away in a fatal accident in Cataula, Georgia, on June 15, 2025.
The details surrounding the incident are still being gathered, but his sudden loss has deeply affected his family and community.
His family and community remember him as a joyful and kind-hearted boy who brought happiness to those around him.
Declan Sadler’s Parents Are Grieving Privately During This Difficult Time!
Declan Sadler is survived by his parents, Josh and Chelsea Sadler, and his three beloved puppy dogs: Lincoln, Lucy, and Loki.
His extended family includes his grandparents, Tonya Smith-Ludlow, Sam and Gina Sumpter and his great-grandparents, Ron and Janice Shelton, Janice Partin Smith, Georgie and Butch Wheeler, and Sam Sumpter Sr.
He also leaves behind his special aunt and uncle, John and Hannah Sumpter, along with many other loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will deeply miss him.
His family and community are mourning his loss, remembering him as a bright and adventurous child who brought joy to everyone around him.
What a beautiful little boy. May the Lord give you peace and strength until you are reunited with him. He’s not gone. He is patiently waiting for you to come join him. Thank you Jesus for a place called heaven.
A member of Celebration Church of the Tri-Cities Community Group, Eli, shared a heartfelt tribute and asked for prayers for Declan and his family, saying:
Hey church fam. I was asked to share this with you all and it’s very heartbreaking. Chelsea Sadler who comes to our services occasionally just lost her boy Declan in a tragic accident yesterday morning. He has such a big impact on everyone he met and knew especially me. I used to take care of him in the nursery and I always got the biggest hugs and smiles out of him every time me and him saw each other. I’m going to miss every moment I had with him…
A celebration of life will be held at Boones Creek Christian Church, though the date and time are yet to be finalized.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Declan Sadler’s family, friends, and well-wishers.
Rest In Peace, Little One!
