Gerald L. Waters

Gerald L. Waters, 81, of Aiken, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 3, 2026. Born December 16, 1944, in Aiken, SC, he was a son of the late Phillip L. Waters and Fannie Gray Fulmer Waters. Gerald was the youngest of seventeen children, a distinction that helped shape the hardworking, determined, and resilient man he became.

For more than 50 years, Gerald dedicated his life to the home-building industry. As a respected builder and developer, he helped shape the landscape of Aiken County through his craftsmanship, vision, and tireless work ethic. Known by all who knew him as a man who never stopped working, Gerald believed deeply in the value of hard work and personal responsibility. Whether building homes, developing property, or tending to his farm, he approached every task with determination and pride. Mr. Waters was a proud member of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), Palmetto Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC), and the Aiken County Cattlemen's Association.

An old-fashioned man at heart, Gerald lived by the principles of honesty, integrity, and perseverance. He believed that a strong work ethic was one of life's greatest virtues and sought to pass that belief on to his children and grandchildren. While he took great pride in his accomplishments, his greatest joy came from his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose love and guidance will be cherished for generations.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 33 years, Lindy Waters; his children, Russell Waters (Gretchen), Kim Waters, Angi Stroud, and Tommy Bell (Portia); his grandchildren, Cody Waters (Elizabeth), Cetch Waters (Emily), Ashton Stroud, Megan Stroud, Justin Bell, Randy Bell, Emeline Wolf, Dorothy Wolf, and Madeline Foltz; his great-grandchildren, Sloane Waters, Suede Waters, Roman Waters, Indie Waters, Rowan Bell, and Blakelynn Stroud; his brother, Thirl Waters (Debbie); and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. In addition to his parents, Gerald was preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara McLaurin Waters; his brothers, Thomas Waters and Evans Waters; and his sister, Ola Boatwright.

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Mr. Waters will be held at 2 o'clock on Thursday, August 6th, at Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Aiken Chapel, with Pastor Clint Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Earle Church of God Cemetery, 341 Earl Church Road, Aiken, SC. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1 o'clock, at the funeral home. Serving as pallbearers are Cetch Waters, Ashton Stroud, Danny Fox, Jason Carey, Trent Rushton, Jamie Lawson, and honorary pallbearer Cody Waters.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to Gerald and his loved ones during his final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Gerald's memory. Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Aiken Chapel, is assisting the Waters family.