Ted Stealey, 75, lifelong resident of Overland Park reached life’s end-zone and reunited with his wife, Carol Jo on April 28, 2026.

Ted was born in Kansas City on October 26, 1950 to proud parents Larry and Frankie Stealey. From an early age, Ted was a huge presence both on and off the field. He was a kind, yet fierce competitor. His athletic prowess was undeniable and earned him a well-deserved spot in the Hall of Fame at Shawnee Mission South High School and a full football scholarship to Kansas State University. South was also where he met his ultimate teammate in life, Carol Jo. Their love story began in study hall their sophomore year and blossomed into a loving marriage spanning over 50 years. Ted and Carol Jo welcomed their son, Jim, in November of 1976 and their daughter, Casey 4 years later. Through it all, their love led the way.

Ted’s drive, grit, and passion on the field left its mark, but his true joy came from his family. As Jim and Casey’s biggest champion, he took immense pride in being their dad. He was always supportive, always present, and always fun. He coached their teams and never missed a single game and through it all, seamlessly passed down his love for competition and profound love for life to his children.

When the games were over and work could wait, Ted could be found manning the grill. His hospitality was second to none. He loved grilling for his family and friends, an activity he paired perfectly with his signature drink: classic vodka martinis. Those sun soaked days and horseshoe filled nights brought friends and family together like only Ted could. Memories of days at the lake and evenings on the deck are too numerous to count.

Ted is survived by his children, Jim Stealey and Casey Atkins (Nick), his mother, Frankie Stealey, sister, Sue (Bill Corbett), and many friends who will proudly carry his larger-than-life legacy forward.

A celebration of Ted’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Village Presbyterian Church in Prairie Village, Kansas. Services will be livestreamed for those unable to attend.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the DAP program at the University of Kansas Sports Medicine and Performance Center. Ted was the first official member of this  incredible program that strives to give people with cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s Disease a place to thrive. The family is forever grateful for the opportunities Ted had thanks to DAP. It was a place of tremendous support and success in his final years.