Samuel "Butch" Waddell, 75, of Jesup, Ga. passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 under the care of Hospice of South Georgia.  The Manchester native had lived in Wayne County most of his adult life and was a 1970 Wayne County High School Graduate.  He retired from Brunswick Pulp and Paper after 15 years.  Sam was a former member of Piney Grove Church of God where he taught Sunday School for over 18 years and served on the Council Board for over 16 years. For the past 15 years, he was a member of New Life Church where he used his amazing skills to cook and smoke meats. Metal detecting and treasure hunting were favorite hobbies. His parents, James "Boy" and Ruth Phillips Waddell preceded him in death along with his brother, James Felton "Tinker" Waddell.

Survivors are his loving wife of 38 years, Eunice Waddell of Jesup;  two sons,  Devin (Yoshiko) Waddell of Japan and Michael (Laura) Westberry of Jesup;  a daughter, Sherry Ann (Ryan) Gibbs of Jesup;  grandchildren, Chelsea Palmer, Anthony (Mika) Yoder, Briley Ayn Westberry, Aiana Waddell, Ian Waddell and Kamden Gibbs; great grandchildren, Bryson and Kambree Palmer, Silva West Yoder; brother, Melvin (Judy) Waddell and sister, Mary Ann (Clarence) Nettles, both of Jesup; several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be 3 PM Sunday, February 22, 2026 at New Life Church with Pastor Justin Drawdy officiating. Interment will follow in the Omega Cemetery in Baxley. Active pallbearers will be Greg and Ron Carter, Kyle Mosley, Jacob Pitts, Johnny Fulghum and Alex Pye. Honorary pallbearers will be the staff of Hospice of South Georgia.

Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of South Georgia, 1625 Sunset Blvd., Jesup, GA 31545.

Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home of Jesup is in charge of arrangements.