John Waddell

John B. "Johnny" Waddell, 69, of Climax, GA, passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2020. Due to the ongoing concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, a private graveside funeral service will be held Saturday, July 4, 2020 at Liberty Baptist Church with Rev. Stacey Glover and Rev. Tim Harrell officiating. Online visitors may sign the guest register at www.iveyfuneral.com . Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. John Bruner Waddell was born April 24, 1951 in Donalsonville, GA, the son of Everette and Lucille Tyler Waddell. He owned Waddell Auction Company and drove a bus for Decatur County Schools for thirty three years. Johnny was a member of Liberty Baptist Church. Johnny always had jokes and could spin a tall tale in a skinny minute. He loved talking with people at auctions almost as much as he loved his animals. With a smile on his face and laughter under his breath, he was ready to make a deal. He adored his family and said he never knew how GREAT great-grandchildren could be. Johnny loved all children and spent decades sharing his love with children all over Decatur County. Though he never wanted anyone to think he had favorites, he had a soft spot for children with special needs. When he could sneak away, he headed to his favorite spot on Spring Creek to fish. Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Cathy Waddell; his children, Wendell & Kerry Waddell of Climax, GA, Kim & Paul Lee of Dothan, AL, and John E. Waddell also of Climax, GA; his siblings, Dallas & Elaine Waddell of Donalsonville, GA, Diane Maxwell of Whigham, GA, and Linda Murkerson of Iron City, GA; his grandchildren, Jessica, Ashley, Austin, Courtney, George, and Savannah; his great-grandchildren, Aubrey, Deacon, and Rosalie; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Johnny was preceded in death by his daughter, Amanda Waddell Regan; and his granddaughter, Payge.