L. Clark Waddell

L. Clark Waddell, a native Lakelander, transitioned to his new home in heaven on Monday, August 4th. A man of great honor and integrity, his life's focus was on his faith, family and friends. Faith: He was quick to testify that Jesus Christ was his Lord and Savior. In his last days, he bore witness of that faith to his individual family members and his friends. He was a member of Scott Lake Baptist Church in Lakeland and loved going to Sunday School and church, as well as doing personal Bible study. Family: Clark's wife and family were everything to him and his goal was to provide, protect and love each one. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, his sister, and his only son, Mitch Waddell and daughter in law, Tracy, in 2023. Clark was a devoted husband to Melba Faye Waddell for 69 years. Together, they raised three children, Mitch (deceased), Lisa Hiestand, and April Brault (Justin). His greatest joy was his love for their two grandchildren, Breanna Hiestand of Lakeland and Andrew Edwards of Oviedo, Florida. Clark and Melba enjoyed extensive travel and he especially liked his visits to Rome, London, and Israel as well as Banner Elk, NC. Friends: Clark had many wonderful friends who loved and respected him and enjoyed his sense of humor and all of his funny stories. In Banner Elk, NC, he served for many years in various roles on the Banner Grande Board of Directors and made life long friendships there. Clark served in the U.S. Army in South Korea from 1957 - 1959 and was in the Army Reserves for two more years. Upon his discharge, he went to work for Gillum Plumbing Co. and by the early 80's, he and Melba owned and operated the company as Gillum-Waddell Plumbing, now owned and operated by his most valued employee, Tommy Knapp and his wife, Sharon. Clark was a member of North Lakeland Rotary Club and was a Lifetime Honorary Member of Rose Keller Children's Home. He loved football and was an outstanding player for the Lakeland Dreadnaughts, playing both defense and offense. He was a very enthusiastic Gator Booster. He enjoyed boating and loved fishing, vacationing in North Carolina, and was an avid reader. Funeral service for Clark will be Wednesday, August 13th, 9:45 am visitation and service at 10:30 am at Gentry Morrison Southside Chapel. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Lighthouse Ministries, P.O. Box 3112, Lakeland, FL 33802.