It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jay Robert Waddell. He was born on December 9, 1956, in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and was a son of the late James "Whitey" Waddell and Dotty Morelock Waddell. He passed away on October 11, 2026, at the age of 69, surrounded by his loving family.

Jay spent his formative years in Taneytown, Maryland, where he graduated from Francis Scott Key High School with the class of 1974. He then went on to earn his Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education from Salisbury State College, where he also showcased his athletic talent by playing baseball.

Throughout his life, Jay dedicated himself to a successful career in sales, making significant contributions in advertising for radio, telecommunications, and security systems. He was not only a devoted professional but also an active member of Allen Memorial Baptist Church in Salisbury, where he served as a Deacon, greeter, and small group leader. Family and faith were paramount in Jay's life; he exemplified steadfast spiritual leadership and consistently prioritized the needs of others.

Jay was a devoted fan of the Baltimore Ravens and Orioles, always cheering on his favorite teams. He also proudly completed the Seagull Century Bike Ride, an accomplishment he could always look back on with pride. He enjoyed the beach, particularly cherished trips to the Caribbean with his wife Ann, and dedicated much of his time to community involvement, including umpiring men's softball and refereeing high school basketball. In his younger days, he served as a Boy Scout Leader, fostering a love for the outdoors and mentorship among youth.

Jay is survived by his devoted spouse of 24 years, Ann Marshall Waddell; his beloved children: daughters, Crystal Crowl (Bob) and Lauren Clemson (Dan), and son Andrew Waddell (Rachel); grandchildren, Jack, Gus, Cassidy, Emily, and Lily; stepdaughter Kristin Pearce (Jason); stepsons, Andrew Rose (Christy) and Jeremy Rose (Stephanie); step-grandchildren, Malori, Jackson, Maci, Ava, Rylie, Lucas, Bailey, and Peyton; and brothers, Jerry Waddell (Chami), Jody Waddell and Jed Waddell (Suzana). He is also survived by his former wife and mother to his children, Diana Waddell, and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life service will be held in his honor on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at Allen Memorial Baptist Church, 1303 Snow Hill Rd, Salisbury, MD 21804, where friends and family may gather for visitation from 12:00 to 1:30.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Allen Memorial Baptist Church by visiting https://pushpay.com/g/allenmemorial, please include In Memory of Jay Waddell.

Jay Robert Waddell will be greatly missed, but his spirit and dedication to family, faith, and community will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home of Delmar.