John Robert Wakefield

John Robert “Bob” Wakefield went to his eternal home on Monday February 3, 2020 at the age of 74 at the Langdale Hospice House in Valdosta, Georgia. Bob was born January 3, 1946 in Birmingham, AL to the late Dr. John and Joy (Williams) Wakefield. The love-struck Bobby (as he was affectionately known by some) married the love of his life on December 2, 1967 in Atlanta, GA. Bob served honorably and proudly in the United States Air Force and served a 13-month tour of duty in Tahkli, Thailand during the Vietnam War. Bob retired in 2017 from South Georgia Medical Center as the director of Clinical Engineering after a long and successful career as a biomedical engineer. Bob had an easy-going and kind nature and was well loved and respected everywhere he worked. He was a member of Trinity Presbyterian Church and cherished his church family. Bob loved the sound of the sea and the feel of the ocean breeze and found his and his true love’s paradise on Jekyll Island, GA where he spent much time making fond memories and loving life. He was a wonderful husband and father and was adored and cherished by many.
Bob is survived by his soul mate, best friend, and wife of 52 years, Candy Wakefield; son John (Debbie) Wakefield of Charlotte, NC; son Michael (Susan) Wakefield of Pittsburgh, PA; daughter Heather (Bert) Wakefield of Madison, FL; and son Matthew (Sheena) Wakefield of Murfreesboro, TN; grandchildren Brandon Wakefield; Spenser Wakefield; Cameron Wakefield; Emma Joy Wakefield; Julian Wakefield; Deacon Wakefield; and Logan Wakefield; brother Tommy Wakefield; sister Dolly (Ken) McCarson; niece Lauren; nephews Connor and James; cats J.J. Wakefield and Truffle Wakefield; and many other beloved family members and friends.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 14, 2020 at eleven a.m. at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Valdosta, Georgia, officiated by Reverend Anghaarad Dees and assisted by Reverend Richard Hart. Lunch will be served immediately following the service. The scattering of ashes will follow at a later date. Flowers are welcome; contributions may be made to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center located at 214 Stable Rd., Jekyll Island, GA, (912)635-4444 (gstc.jekyllisland.com) or the Jekyll Island Foundation located at P.O. Box 13002, Jekyll Island, GA, (912)635-4100 (jekyllislandfoundation.org).