Ronald Raymond Waddell, 89, of Forest, Virginia passed away on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, peacefully at Lynchburg General Hospital surrounded by family.
Son of the late Raymond and Mabel (Tharp) Waddell, he was born November 12, 1935, in Rockport. He received his bachelor’s degree from Kentucky Wesleyan College in Owensboro, KY, and worked for Abbott Laboratories for 21 years until his retirement in 1997.
A veteran, Ronald served in the Army (Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo and Germany) during the end of the Korean War.
Ron was a loving husband and devoted father whose life focused on providing for his family. He enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his children, Ronald Scott (Terry) of Lynchburg, VA, Kevin Ray (Eileen) of Salisbury, MD, and Kristina Dawn Oliver (Tom) of Mechanicsville, VA; eight grandchildren, Derek Waddell, Elisabeth Dewitt (Brandon), Samantha, Lauren and Kevin Waddell, Troy, Michael and Matthew Oliver; and two great-grandchildren, Kenda and Dakota DeWitt.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 62 years, Joyce E. Waddell, sister Marianne Stateler and brother Roy Waddell.
Ron was an avid coin collector and frequented coin shows all over the country. He loved everything about the Civil War as his grandfather fought in the conflict from 1861-1865. He loved to play golf but seemed to love the driving range most.
He was a long-time supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude.
Services were private.
Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory, Lynchburg, VA is assisting the family. To send condolences visit tharpfuneralhome.com.
