James David Wathen

James David Wathen, 83, formerly of Bellevue, MI and Port Charlotte, FL passed away May 15, 2014 after a brief illness. He was born July 11, 1930 in Evansville, IN to the late Henry Allen and Lillian Lorraine Wathen. Mr. Wathen received his master's degree from Michigan State University and was a retired teacher with Battle Creek Public Schools.

Survivors include his daughter, Marianne Schmidt (Scott) of Valdosta, GA; daughter, Jennifer Wathen of Kentwood, MI; daughter, Linda Wathen of South Pasadena, FL; son, Steven Wathen (Paula) of Lawton, MI; son, Gerald Wathen (Patti) of Gainesville, FL; daughter, Judith Shelton (Greg) of Grand Rapids, MI; fifteen grandchildren and several great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lillian Marie Wathen; two daughters, Carol Myers and Diane Cope; two brothers, Father Ambrose Wathen, O.S.B. and Melvin Wathen; one sister, Anna Mae Lewis.

A memorial service will be held May 30, 2014 at St. Joseph Abbey in Covington, LA. In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Joseph Abbey, 75376 River Rd. Saint Benedict, LA 70457 or Bethany Hospice, 2517 Bemiss Rd, Valdosta, GA 31602. Condolences may be conveyed online at www.mclanecares.com.

Funeral Home:
Carson McLane Funeral Home
2215 North Patterson Street
Valdosta, GA
US 31602