Geneva Waddell

Geneva Waddell transitioned from her earthly body to her heavenly home on Sunday, April 21, 2024. Geneva was born on October 15, 1924, to the late Leonard and Hilma Gardner Gates in Okolona, Mississippi. She was the youngest of their three daughters. Geneva accepted Christ at an early age in Mississippi before moving to Gary, Indiana. Once in Gary, she became a faithful member of First Baptist Church and went on to attend Christ Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Colvin Blandford and Pastor Maurice White.

Geneva attended Roosevelt High School, where she met the love of her life, William Waddell, Sr. To this union two children were born: William, Jr., and Fayetta. They were happily married for 60 years until William passed away on October 3, 2002.

Geneva spent the majority of her years as a devoted homemaker caring for her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was also a secretary at Jones Electric Company and Towns Funeral Home. Working at the funeral home also gave her more quality time with one of her favorite nieces, Gina.

Geneva was preceded in death by her loving parents; Leonard Gates and Hilma Gardner Gates; husband, William Waddell, Sr., son, William Waddell, Jr.; sisters, Mary Anna Witherspoon, and Luevator Suggs Smith.

Geneva's memory will be cherished by her daughter, Fayetta Waddell Tucker; three granddaughters, Angie (Willie) Oliver, Lisa (Curtis) Smith of St. Louis, MO., and Julie Waddell; five great-grandchildren, Autumn Oliver, Sydnee Oliver, William Waddell, Selena Smith, and Zoe Oliver; daughter-in-law, Alma Waddell; two special grandsons-in-love, Darryl Najib and Barrett Woodall, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visitation Wednesday, May 1, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. with Homegoing Services 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. from Ridgelawn Funeral Home 4201 West Ridge Road Gary, Indiana 46408. Interment Oakhill Cemetery Gary, Indiana 46408.

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