John A. Waddell

1941 - 2025

John A Waddell

March 31, 1941 - January 1, 2025

John A. Waddell, born on March 31, 1941 in Bloomington, Illinois, passed away peacefully on January 1,2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Jack was preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Louise Waddell Sr., maternal grandparents Aquilla and Edna Smith, siblings Dorothy Waddell, Harlan Waddell, Arthur Waddell, Jr., Robert E. Waddell, Sr., Marilyn Thompson; brother-in-law Arthur "Skeets" Thompson and sister-in-law Barbara Jean Waddell; nephews, Eddie Hosea, Michael "Mickie" Thompson, Gregory Thompson and Brian Waddell.

Survivors include nieces, Barbara Lynne Waddell, Michelle Thompson, Karen (Wes) Lee, Phyllis Thompson; nephews, Randy (Julie) Thompson, Robert (Trini) Waddell Jr.and a host of great-nieces and nephews. Known as Jack by family and friends, he lived a remarkable life filled with love, laughter, and a deep commitment to his family and community.

With his bass-baritone voice, inherited in his family, he performed locally as a youth and in college. After graduation Jack served two years in the U.S. Army Chorus. This Bloomington native and trailblazing African American vocalist then left for Germany and began his own illustrious operatic career that spanned two full decades on the stages of the great capitals of Europe.

After captivating audiences abroad in major roles ranging from Verdi's Don Carlo to celebrated performances in the musical Hair alongside Donna Summer, Jack returned in the 1980s to the United States. Here he became a revered vocal coach based in New York City, shaping the talents of now untold numbers of students and leaving an indelible mark on the musical world. Jack would go on to be honored as an "Unsung Hero of Broadway" by the American Theatre Wing in 2023.

A polyglot fluent in several languages, most notably German and Italian, Jack brought a deep understanding of the repertoire he performed, earning acclaim for both his technical brilliance and emotional depth. His extraordinary career, spanning opera houses and concert stages, reflected not only his exceptional artistry but also his groundbreaking presence in a field that had long lacked diversity. A proud graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University, Jack dedicated many years to his career in education, inspiring countless students as a teacher and mentor. He was passionate about instilling a love of music in others and was known for his kindness and spirit. His sense of humor and infectious laughter brightened every room he entered.

As we celebrate the life of John A. Waddell, we invite all who knew and loved him to join us for a memorial service at the Second Presbyterian Church of Bloomington on Monday, March 31, 2025 at 11 a.m., officiated by the Reverend Lori Kyle. This date would have been Jack's 84th birthday. This will be a time to reflect on his life, share memories, and honor the legacy of a truly remarkable man.

Reception to follow in the McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St., Bloomington, IL 61701, just a few blocks north of the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the "John A Waddell Foundation Of The Arts And Music," P.O. Box 1078, Bloomington IL 61702, or a charity of your choice. Donations to the John A Waddell Foundation will be used to continue impacting our community and students, honoring the man whose voice and mentorship resonated across generations and continents.