Wendell Waters

Wendell Waters passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026, at Big Bend Hospice Center in Tallahassee following a battle with cancer.

He was born on May 21, 1957, to Maureen and Riley Waters and was raised in Jasper, Florida. In 1991, he married the love of his life, Donna Waters, and together they spent 26 years raising their family before her passing in 2017.

Wendell was a simple man who made his living as a farmer. Along with farming, he worked for 20 years on the power lines as a heavy equipment operator, a job that reflected his strong work ethic and dedication. After retirement, he operated his lawn care business, where his faithful companion Sophie was always by his side. 

He loved his animals- his chickens, and goats—his land, fishing, and most of all, his family. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and he cherished every moment he spent with them. He was known for his outspoken, matter-of-fact personality and his willingness to work hard for those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Donna Waters; his parents, Maureen and Riley Waters; and his brothers, Wesley Waters and Wayne Waters.

Wendell is survived by his children: Riley Dale Waters (Leslie), Jonathan Waters, Desiree Rester (Brannon), Whitney Waters (Nick), Jennifer Kinsey (Jordan), and Jacob Waters (Amanda); 17 grandchildren; his sister, Wyonas Cribbs; his niece, Crystal Leeman (Tim); and his nephew, Jason Cribbs (Becky).

A service to honor Wendell’s life will be held on May 4, 2026, at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Madison, Florida. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., with the funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place afterward at Corinth Baptist Church Cemetery in Jasper, Florida.

Wendell will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his love of the land, and the simple, meaningful life he lived. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.