Leighton Stanford Gaddy devoted husband passed away March 12, 2023 at the age of 82. He was born in Lynchburg, Virginia to the late William Stanford Gaddy; and Nina Pauline Nichols Gaddy. He is preceded in death by his son Robert L. Gaddy and his brother Marvill R. Gaddy.

Leighton graduated from Norview High School, Norfolk, VA in 1958. He attended Norfolk Division of the College of William & Mary (now Old Dominion (University). He served in the (United States Army Reserve March 1965 through March 1969.

Over his 56 year career, Leighton has left his footprint on many highways, Airports, and Site Development projects in the southeastern states. In 1959 he went to work for Ames & Webb as a Engineer/Survey Party. There, his knowledge and leadership skills led him to become the corporation President. As President, in December of 1983, he was responsible for the completion of all contracts and business affairs during the buyout and liquidation of the Corporation. He then went to work for Higgerson—Buchanan, Inc as Vice President Project Administrator until he retired.

The Corps of Engineers wrote in a commendation stating that Leighton Gaddy “was highly respected for his pride, professionalism, and dedication that epitomized an outstanding contractor”.

Some of his most important projects were Beaver Dam - Gloucester VA, Savannah Airport, Bowers Hill Interchange Improvements, Virginia Beach Amphitheater, Oak Grove Connector, US Route 64 Roper - Roper NC, APM Terminals - Portsmouth VA, Dominion Blvd. Detour - Chesapeake VA, I-64 HOV Widening - Norfolk VA, Dike Raising Eagle Island - Wilmington, NC, Wilmington Harbor, NC. You could always count on Leighton to be dressed in button down dress shirts, khaki pants and cashmere sweaters. Always ready to go where ever he was needed.

The one hobby that Leighton loved was his Lionel train collection, with one room dedicated, he would run 6 trains at the same time for anyone that wanted to see them. At Christmas he would set up a display with the Polar Express to run through villages, farms, and tunnels including 32 lighted buildings and all their accessories. Everyone looked forward to seeing what he would do the next year because it touched many hearts especially our Alexa.

I surround my Braveheart with forever love, brilliant golden light, and eternal peace. Always in my heart your devoted wife and partner of 25 years, Barbara Parker Gaddy. Also survived by Son Michael S. Gaddy (Cary). Daughters (who named him “Mr. Tasters Choice”) Roxanne Bell, and Mishlyn Verdon. Six grandchildren, Tucker & Carson Gaddy, Zach & Alexa Bell, Skylor & Caitlyn Dilorio, his truest friend of 75 years Wayne Williams (Sandra), Chris Higgerson (Becky) who Leighton mentored in the construction business, and many other family and friends.

I would like to extend a special thanks to Veronica Beckles with Gladstone Homecare and staff especially Kristine Mae Limos (who called him Mr. Leighton, Poppy, Papa, or Grumpy) and Justin Temple, his buddy, for their special loving care and friendships during Leighton’s care. Thanks to Harmony Care and Medi Home Health & Hospice for his care during Leighton’s journey home to eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to Virginia Beach Rescue squad at 740 Virginia Beach, VA 23451 or a charity of your choice.

A grave side service will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 11 am at Woodlawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends starting at 12 noon at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apartments laskin Road chapel with a memorial service at 1 pm at the funeral home.