Votto A. Gaddis

With deep love and gratitude for a life well lived, we share that Votto A. Gaddis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and faithful friend, went home to be with Jesus on Thursday, May 29, at the age of 90. Votto was known for all the roles he filled, but he’ll be remembered most for the difference he made in people’s lives. He was a gifted athlete in his younger years and played football with passion and determination at Hallsville High School, Paris Junior College and Stephen F. Austin State University. That same drive led him into a lifelong career in education at Longview and Hallsville High Schools, where he served as a teacher, coach, and principal. He poured his heart into shaping young people and encouraging students both in the classroom and on the field. Votto was married to the love of his life, JoAnn Gaddis, for nearly 72 years. Their marriage was a beautiful example of commitment, partnership, and enduring love. Together, they built a home where faith in Jesus was the foundation and family was the heart. Through every season of life, they stood side by side, raising their children, attending church, praying, and serving together. Their relationship was not only a blessing to each other but an inspiration to everyone who had the joy of witnessing it. Votto was an incredible dad; he was kind, patient, and full of wisdom. His children always knew they were deeply loved and supported. He led by example, taught by doing, and provided steady guidance rooted in faith and integrity. His legacy as a father will live on for generations. Votto adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether it was attending ballgames, family dinners, sharing stories, or offering words of wisdom, “Pawpaw” loved each one deeply and unconditionally. He was their biggest fan, fiercest encourager, and above all else, wanted all of them to follow Jesus. Votto’s greatest devotion was to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His faith was not just something he believed; it was something he lived. One of his deepest joys was leading hymns and singing at local nursing homes, where he brought comfort and joy to many. He served humbly but wholeheartedly, always pointing others toward the love of Jesus. He was preceded in death by his parents Votto and Alma Gaddis; sisters, Betty Jean and Syble Marie; brothers, Malcolm, Wayne, and Connie; and his grandson, Justin Gaddis. He is survived by his wife; JoAnn Mowery Gaddis, his children: Steve (Gloria) Gaddis & Randy (Treasa) Gaddis, his grandchildren: Lindsey (Jason) Gerdes, Logan (Stephen) Gaddis, Jordan Gaddis and Lauren Gaddis, his great- grandchildren: Jackson and Natalie Gerdes, Caden, Greyson, and Landon Gaddis; his brother, Prothro Gaddis, and his sister, Millie Lynn; and a host of special extended family and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his presence. Votto’s life reflected the grace and goodness of God as he walked closely with Jesus, loved others deeply, and left behind a legacy of strength, compassion, and unwavering devotion. A celebration of Votto’s life will be held on Sunday, June 22, at 3:00p at Revolution Church in Canton, GA, 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton, GA 30115. If you are unable to attend in person, you can watch the Celebration of Life online here: https://bit.ly/VottoGaddis. Those who wish to honor Votto’s memory, please consider making a donation to Revolution Church - Mission Camp Scholarship Fund: https://revolution.church/give. If you would like to send flowers, please have them delivered on Saturday morning, June 21, to the Revolution Church Canton offices.

Tributes

Votto A. Gaddis

November 10, 1934 - May 29, 2025