J. D. Waters

Mr.J. D. Waters, 83, of Elberton, GA, passed away Thursday, January 26, 2012 at his home. Mr. Waters was born in Calhoun Falls, SC, to the late Samuel Preston and Sallie Ruth Sutherland Waters.He celebrated 56 years of marriage with his wife, Audrey Janelle Smith Waters.His life’s work was as an industrial mechanic. Mr. Waters was a US. Navy veteran, having served during the Korean War.He retired after 22 years of service with the 214th Field Artillery Unit of the Georgia National Guard.Mr. Waters also served in the Elbert County Rescue Unit for 24 years, and served as the EMA Director and as a Sheriff’s Deputy for 2 years.Mr. Waters was a member of the Calhoun Falls Masonic Lodge #283.He was a longtime member of Bethel E Baptist Church, having served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher for many years. In addition to his wife,Mr. Waters is survived by his children:Suzanne Denise Burden, David Michael Waters, and Stephen Mitchell Waters, all of Elberton;8 grandchildren and 16 great- grandchildren;and a brother, William Franklin Waters of Carlton, GA. In addition to his parents, Mr. Waters was preceded in death by a son, Brian Keith Waters;a grandson, Luke Mitchell Waters; and 2 brothers, Samuel Preston Waters and Rev. DeWitt Waters. A service celebrating Mr. Waters’ life will be held Sunday, January 29, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at Bethel E Baptist Church.Rev. Rand Freer and Rev. Scott Mize will be officiating.Visitation will be Saturday, January 28, 2012 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Hicks Funeral Home.Interment will be at Bethel E Baptist Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Bethel E Baptist Church Building Fund, 2576 Calhoun Falls Hwy., Elberton, GA 30635. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hicksfuneral.com. Hicks Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Mr. J. D. Waters.