Mr. Maurice "Butch" Waddell Jr.

Maurice “Butch” Waddell, Jr. passed away on October 29, 2013 at Capital Regional Medical Center in Tallahassee, Florida. “Butch” as he was affectionately called, was born on November 15, 1956 in Bennettsville, South Carolina to Dr. Maurice Waddell, Sr. and Mrs. Doris P. Waddell of Columbia, South Carolina. Mr. Waddell attended public schools in Clio, Beaufort and Hartsville, South Carolina. He graduated in 1975 from Butler High School in Hartsville. Throughout his high school career, he participated in chorus and excelled in athletics, earning a football scholarship to Virginia State University in Petersburg, Virginia. He also participated in intercollegiate athletics at Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina. Maurice began his career as a Manager at Kmart department stores in Charleston and Columbia, South Carolina. In addition, he was employed as an officer at the South Carolina Department of Corrections. In the latter stages of his career, he worked in management at Flying J in Columbia and ended his career at Logan Elementary School in Richland School District 1. Maurice spent much of his free time pursuing creative endeavors such as music and writing. He wrote and produced songs as well as poetry and stories that described his own life, his family and events that shaped his extroverted and unique personality. “Butch” Waddell never met a stranger. Fully possessed of the “gift of gab”, he enjoyed a vigorous discussion and a hearty laugh with whomever would engage him in conversation. In addition, he was a caring person who had a very loving personality. He was a keen observer of people and surroundings. Maurice was a voracious reader who could comment on a variety of subjects from athletics to international relations. Family was also important to Maurice. He was a loving father and grandfather who often discussed his children and grandchildren with acquaintances and family alike. He also shared a special affinity for young people as well as those in need, generously offering fatherly advice. His fun-loving and caring personality made him the “Mayor of every place he went” throughout his life. Maurice Waddell, Jr. was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Maurice Waddell, Sr. (Columbia, SC) He is survived by a host of family members including his wife, Gwendolyn Goyner Waddell and children-Jerrell Maurice Waddell, Maurice Waddell, III and Tevin Goyner. He is also survived by his loving mother, Mrs. Doris P. Waddell and siblings, Dr. John K. Waddell (Sharon), Mr. Douglas K. Waddell (Carolyn), Ms. Marcia C. Waddell and Dr. Doris Waddell Gilliam. Three grandchildren, two nephews and four nieces also survive the deceased. Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of his life. Visitation will take place at Palmer Memorial Chapel on Friday, November 1, 2013 from 6-8 p.m. The funeral will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 2, 2013 at Francis Burns United Methodist Church, 5616 Farrow Road, Columbia, SC. The Rev. Dr. Ernest C. Etheridge will officiate the Homegoing service. Interment will follow at Crescent Hill Cemetery.

Mr. Maurice "Butch" Waddell Jr.

November 15, 1956 - October 29, 2013