James Wesley “JW” Wadkins, 86, of Albertville and a beloved member of the Snead community, passed peacefully on September 28, 2026, at Shepherd’s Cove Hospice of Albertville. Born on September 28, 1940, JW departed for his heavenly home on his 86th birthday.

JW leaves behind his devoted wife, Dianna Cagle Wadkins, of Albertville, and a loving family who will forever cherish his memory. He is survived by his daughter, Karin Wadkins Mosley (Rick); his son, Kelly Wadkins (Susan); his grandchildren, Heather Hopper Hamlet (Russ), Kaitlin Wadkins McDonald (Seth), and Ryan Wadkins; four great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

JW also leaves behind his loving siblings, Edward Watkins (Katherine), Gene Wadkins (Nadine), Roy Wadkins (Joan), and Junior Wadkins (Sharon). He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Millie Wadkins; his sister, Edna Ruth Starnes, and his great-granddaughter, Jocelyn Clevinger.

JW retired after 33 years of dedicated service with the Alabama Department of Transportation, where he served as Assistant Preconstruction Engineer. Following his retirement, he treasured spending time with his family and traveling. His stories, laughter, and joy for life brought happiness to everyone who knew him. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories he created with his family and friends will live on.

Family and friends are invited to honor JW’s memory and celebrate his life.

Visitation will be held at Snead Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

JW will then lie in repose at Bethel Baptist Church on Thursday, October 1, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m., with burial to follow at Bethel Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers and honored to carry JW to his final resting place are Gary Watkins, Tommy Watkins, Rick Mosley, Russ Hamlet, Seth McDonald, and Ryan Wadkins.

Snead Funeral Home is honored to serve the Wadkins family.