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.