John Golden Weatherford III
1952 - 2023
John Golden Weatherford III
1952 - 2023
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John Weatherford III Obituary
John Golden Weatherford III, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, died at home on the morning of Friday, May 26, 2023, from complications of pancreatic cancer.
Born and raised in Athens, Georgia, John started his long career in media and television as a teenager, when his beautiful voice was already deep enough for an Athens radio station to hire him to make announcements. He graduated from Furman University in 1973, and, after a short stint at a South Carolina newspaper, moved to Atlanta.
John worked as a reporter, anchor, and producer for WAGA Channel 5 television, where he also became the first U.S. citizen in the BBC Study Visit program in London. He then started his own successful companies under the Weatherford Communications umbrella, creating numerous Emmy-award winning shows. He next worked as the Chief Operating Officer for an Atlanta public radio and television station. Finally, returning to his entrepreneurial roots, he also produced several award-winning documentaries. Among his many honors, he was inducted into both the Georgia Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame and the NATAS Gold Circle.
John was a committed, lifelong volunteer. Among his many activities at Oak Grove United Methodist Church, he served as an usher, reader, and bus driver, delivering Blessing Bag meals to children. He also served two terms as President of the Board of the Georgia Radio Reading Service.
But John's main passion and biggest joy in life was his family. No matter his schedule, he didn't miss son John's swim meets or daughter Sarah's cross country races. He loved spoiling his family and was a true Southern gentleman to his very core. Even going for chemo treatments, he would hold doors open for Michele and the staff.
John was lucky enough to have decades of happy memories of family adventures and trips to Europe and to his family's special love, St. Simons Island. The entire family loved sitting on the patio watching the birds at the many bird feeders John built and kept filled.
He is survived by his wife, Michele; son John Weatherford IV (Kate), daughter Sarah Weatherford Millette (Nick), four grandchildren, Anne Caroline, Claire, Jack, and Emily, and extended family relatives.
There will be a memorial service Saturday, June 3, at Oak Grove United Methodist Church at 2pm, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Georgia Audubon Society or the Blessing Bag ministry at Oak Grove United Methodist Church. Weatherford III, John Golden
6 Entries
Craig Mullins
June 9, 2023
I have known John for 20+- years mainly during his time at WABE. What a great guy. He and I would meet one or twice a year at the White House in Buckhead to address worldly opportunities. I always loved his radio voice. Our daughter interned one summer at WABE and has always remembered John´s graciousness to all of his constituents. I am sure his outlook impacted her decision to join the Peace Corp. I also learned a lot from John about how to approach life. A kind and gentle person. You will be missed.
Bruce Bauer
June 9, 2023
John was at PBS Atlanta/WABE and worked and work with an organization that assisted the station in its fundraising efforts. We got together many times over the years both at Public Media conferences and at the ststion. He even took me out for lunch at one of his favorite restaurants. However, what I will always remember was a conference in Washington, DC. My wife had passed away just 2 weeks before. When he found out he insisted that I join he and his team for dinner, just so I could be with people who cared. I will always remember him as a man who cared...
Kathleen Jennings
June 3, 2023
The passing of John Golden Weatherford III is a deep time of sorrow for so many and for the world. I have known John since the 70´s and worked with him professionally, later as a cherished love. We parted ways in his move to Atlanta and mine to law school. He was a consummate gentleman and always held a place in my heart. A myriad of talents, I´m happy he found joy in his family and career. Deepest sympathy to his wife, beloved children, and grandchildren in whom he doted. Gone way too young, he earned high respect in all he did. Well done, John. You are forever cherished.
Barbara Brown
June 1, 2023
My Condolences to the family of John Weatherford I meet John working for GPB in 2014 he was a beautiful person with such a kind heart and cared about others. I was so sad to hear the news, that John has passed! he´s in a better place now no more pain, no more suffering my dear friend have received his wings and his beautiful soul will rest in heaven with the Lord!
I admire John and enjoyed numerous conversations we had. He was truly on of the good ones. I will miss that melodious voice of his.
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Suzan Satterfield
June 1, 2023
John was always kind and gracious in a business that desperately needs more of that. I admired him and always enjoyed hearing his melodious voice.
Cheryl Holcomb
May 31, 2023
It was our family's pleasure and blessing to know John and his entire family while serving at Oak Grove UMC. He was a faithful supporter of the Church and our family. Pretty sure he and Michelle helped raise Whitney, our daughter. I remember fondly when a severe ice storm came thru and knocked out power for days in the Oak Grove community. John and Michelle kindly "put up our family" in their lovely home, so as to have a warm place to stay and fed us as well. Sending hugs of comfort and prayers for strength in the days and months to come. Love to you all,
Cheryl Holcomb and Family
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