Theodore Edwin Canfield

Theodore "Ted" Edwin Canfield, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away after a brief illness on January 21, 2026, at Atrium Health Wake Forest High Point Medical Center in NC. He was 72 years old.

Born on November 25, 1953, in Tompkins County, NY, Ted was the cherished son of the late Lester and Charlotte Canfield. He grew up in Dryden and attended Dryden High School. In his early twenties, Ted found deep meaning in his faith, accepting Christ at a Methodist church and was a devoted member of Welcome First Baptist.

A strong husband and father, Ted was married to his first wife, Elma Canfield, until her passing. In 2011, he married his devoted wife, Amy Jo Perkins, in a god-centered ceremony in Slaterville, NY, and they shared many cherished years together.

For 25 years, Ted served as the head custodian at Cornell University. He found great fulfillment in tending to his land and animals, working in his workshop, tinkering with his computer, and spending cherished moments with his family. An avid learner of his ancestry, Ted delighted in discovering family roots and shared this passion with those he loved. His animals and the simple pleasures of fiddling around the house brought him endless joy.

Ted is preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Elma Canfield. He leaves behind a loving family: his devoted wife, Amy Jo Canfield; his daughter, Erin Olson (Paul), and their children, Bryce and Ella; his son, Seth Canfield (Jessica), and their children, Liam, Lincoln, and Nora; his sister, Sharon Cooper; his stepson, Jason Richards (Marie), and their children, MacKenzie and Jordan; and his stepdaughter, Traci Lacy, and her children, Gerald, Athena, Rex, and Stephen. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00pm on January 29 at Welcome First Baptist, and another memorial in NY later this year allowing family and friends to gather in remembrance of a life well-lived. The family will also receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1:00-2:00pm at the church. Memorial donations may be made to Greater Things Outreach Center in Lexington, NC, or to any local animal shelter, causes close to Ted's heart.

Theodore "Ted" Edwin Canfield will be remembered for his infectious smile and the humorous nicknames he shared with his grandchildren, a reflection of the joy and love he held for his family. Rooted in his trust in God, Ted’s life was guided by a deep and steadfast faith that influenced the love, kindness, and care he shared with others.