James Barry "Gator" Padgett

James Barry “Gator” Padgett, 67, of Greensboro, GA, died Tuesday, August 20, 2019 surrounded by loved ones.  Born April 2, 1952 in Atlanta, GA, he was the son of Barbara Padgett Hendricks of Madison, GA and the late James Barney Padgett.

Barry graduated from Douglas County High School in Douglasville, GA.  He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War from 1970 to 1973.

After serving in the Air Force, Barry spent many years as a truck driver for Wayne Leach Sand & Gravel where he acquired the name “Gator” as his CB handle.  He then went on to open his own road service business, Padgett’s Road Service, from 88’-06’.  He spent the next few years working for his brother Darrell, Padgett Grading, before retiring in 2009.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by a daughter, Karen Diane Padgett (Mitch Kimbrough) of Greensboro, GA; son, James Benjamin Padgett (Sharon) of Greensboro, GA; grandchildren, Taylor Atkins (Matt) of Eatonton, GA, Cody and McKenna Padgett; great grandchild, Addison Marie Atkins; other  relatives, Barbara Jean Padgett and Chris Venable and many friends.  In addition to his father he was preceded in death by his brother, Darrell Barney Padgett.

Barry enjoyed fishing, hunting, cutting wood and restoring old cars. His pride and joy is his 64 Chevy pick-up truck.  He loved playing the piano.  He recorded several Gospel CDs and a Christmas CD. He had the best sense of humor.  Even during the times he was hospitalized, he always kept the nurses and staff in tears with his jokes.  He loved his family more than anything.  His greatest love was his brother, Darrell, who are together today in Heaven talking about old cars and old times. 
 
Later Gator!

Funeral Services will be held Monday, August 26, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2617 Vinson Highway, Milledgeville, GA 31061 with Rev. Wayne Usry officiating. A celebration of life will be held immediately following the service beginning at 2:30 at Freedom Worship Center, 6041 Madison Hwy, Greensboro, GA 30642.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made in Barry’s memory to Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201-0001.  McCommons Funeral Home, 109 W. Broad St., Greensboro, GA, (706) 453-2626, is in charge of arrangements. 

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