John Watlington Waddill, 83, of Chester, died Thursday, December 1, 2016.  For the past two years he resided at Tyler’s Retreat in Chester.

He leaves his wife of 62 years, and true lifetime companion, Lois Baisey Waddill; his son, John Watlington Waddill Jr. (Sherrie); his daughter, Mary Susan Rehm (Tom); his grandchildren, Virginia Christine Barnes (Kirk), John Thomas Watlington Waddill, Anna Virginia Rehm; and his great-granddaughter, Riley Anne Barnes, and several nephews and nieces. John was preceded in death by his parents, James and Alys Waddill and his brother, Dr. James Thomas Waddill.

John was born in Victoria and was a long-time resident of Chester. He was beloved by his family, friends and co-workers.

Prior to graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Tech in 1960, John served his country in the Army stationed in Germany for four years, earning the rank of Sargent. He was a registered Professional Engineer with a long and successful career at Dominion Virginia Power (VEPCO). He was an active member of Chester Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon. In addition, John was a lifetime member of the Lake Drummond Masonic Lodge (178) in Chesapeake. He was also a very active member of the Victoria High School Alumni Association.

He enjoyed spending time at his second home at Lake Gaston, that he designed and built, fishing, re-building furniture, restoring British Sport Cars, tinkering in the garage, a love for border collies and a passion for flying airplanes.

A funeral service was held on Monday, December 5 at Chester Baptist Church.

J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home, Chester, serviced the family.