Carroll "Ben" Benson Waddell III

Carroll Benson “Ben” Waddell, III passed away Friday July 7, 2023 at home with his parents. Surviving family are parents Carroll B. Waddell Jr. and Joan L. Waddell, sister Jessica W. Risko and spouse Ben Risko, paternal grandmother Sandy Waddell, along with numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Ben was born with a rare genetic disorder, Pallister Killian Syndrome, which affected his mental and physical abilities severely. His capacity and ability to show love to others, however, was not affected. Ben bravely and courageously faced many challenges, amazing everyone around him with his internal strength. He tremendously loved his sister Jessie, and his face would light up every time she walked into a room. Ben taught all of us how to live and love in the purest form.

Ben graduated from Washington Center in 2021 with a degree in providing full and never-ending love. Ben loved to fly balloons and worked at perfecting his skills daily. He thrived being outdoors, and he enjoyed going on wheelchair rides around his neighborhood or sitting on his porch watching hummingbirds. Listening to music, watching sports, and creating art were just a few of the ways he lived a full and happy life. Ben’s family created countless memories with him while immersing him in everything life has to offer.

A true angel on earth, his family is devastated to be without his light. The Waddells will forever be grateful to the medical community, especially the home nurses who became a part of the family, and whom Ben dearly loved. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations to be made to Make a Wish South Carolina, the PKS Kids Foundation, or Prisma Health Children's Hospital.

A visitation and reception for Ben will be held Thursday, July 13, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Mackey Funerals and Cremations at Century Drive, 311 Century Drive, Greenville, SC 29607.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mackeycenturydrive.com for the Waddell family.