Gordon R. Batchelor

Gordon R. Batchelor was born on March 20, 1943, to Barney and Hattie Batchelor. He spent his childhood and adolescence in Atlanta with his parents until he joined the military in October 1962, serving honorably until 1966.

After his enlistment, a mutual friend, Bootsie Davis, introduced him to Pat Woodruff. On August 29, 1970, in front of friends and family, they were married and embarked on an amazing 42-year journey—one that ended only with Pat’s passing in 2012.

Gordon was employed by Carolina Trucking in Atlanta. Later employed by Mumford as a rate analysis, and finally retired from United Refrigeration(Millard) in McDonough

Gordon was a man whose love and devotion knew no limits. A devoted husband, he cared for his beloved wife, Pat, with unwavering tenderness and loyalty until her passing, honoring his vows in every sense. Their marriage was a testament to deep commitment, quiet strength, and enduring love—touching everyone who knew them. That love never died. He was Pat’s husband until the end and wore her ring until his last breath.

On June 22, 1971, their only child, Kimberly, was born. She was the apple of their eye and the center of their world. She tested Gordon’s frugal mindset daily—once even convincing him to spend over $100 on a Cabbage Patch doll. Despite his “gruff” exterior, Gordon was meant to be a “girl dad,” which was fitting, because with Pat as his wife, he didn’t have much choice! He lived with hairbows and clogging, attended more weddings than he could count, and wrapped more Christmas presents than most men ever do. Though their marriage was not without its challenges, he and Pat shared the kind of love most people only dream about. He was also a wonderful father to Kim, shaping her life through his guidance, patience, and boundless love. His wisdom came not only from his words but from the example he set each day—working hard, standing firm in his values, and putting his family first.

Gordon was a faithful servant to his church. He was never a pushy Christian—he simply served. Over the years, he was a board member and a teacher, loving his church and serving it with quiet dedication.

In 1992, Gordon became a “Papa.” His grandson, Cody, brought so much joy to his life. For six years, Gordon not only embraced the role of grandfather but also served as Cody’s only father figure—a role he carried proudly and fulfilled with love.

In 1998, Kim married Dewayne, bringing two blessings into Gordon and Pat’s lives that day: a granddaughter, Ariel, and the best son-in-law they could have ever asked for. Having another little girl to spoil was a gift, and Dewayne’s care for both Pat and Gordon over the years has been nothing short of remarkable. They always knew they could count on him—his love and devotion have been a source of strength for the whole family.

There is no greater honor in life than being able to give back even a small portion of the love your parents have given you. Kim was proud to have had that honor. For the past 15 years, she cared for both of her parents with devotion, tenderness, and gratitude—loving and cherishing them every moment they were with her. Now, their absence leaves an ache words cannot fully express, but she will lean on her friends and family for comfort as she learns to live with the emptiness. She will always carry the deep peace of knowing she gave them every ounce of love and care she possibly could.

Those who knew Gordon will remember his gentle spirit, quick smile, and the way he made others feel valued. He was a man who believed in doing the right thing, in putting family first, and in leaving the world a little better than he found it. And, of course, they will remember that he was the lone Georgia Tech fan in a sea of Dawg fans.

Gordon is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Pat; his parents, Barney and Hattie Batchelor; sister-in-law Buna Jordan and her husband, Billy; brother-in-law Harold Woodruff and his wife, Seleana; sister-in-law Gail Woodruff; and co-parents-in-law James and Betty Collins.

He is survived by his daughter, Kim Collins, and son-in-law, Dewayne Collins, whom he cherished; grandson, Cody; and granddaughter, Ariel, and her husband, Matthew. He is also survived by brothers-in-law Terry Woodruff and wife, Faye, and Jerry Woodruff; nephews Bill Jordan and wife, Tammy, and James Woodruff; nieces Amanda Harris and husband, Ashley, and Jerrica Crim and husband, Matt; great-nephews Neill and Breanna Jordan, Jamie Jordan and Benoit Sabourin, and Kason and Jackson Crim; and great-great-nieces Emery and Avery Jordan.

He was blessed with special extended family members: Ron and Jeanette Majors; Josh, Rebecca, Nathan, and Easton Majors; Lisa Walton; Debbie and Mike Stewart; Scotty and Amber Walton with children Hunter, Hayden, Easton, and Grayson; Ashley Walton and Brandon and Meaghan with children Blakeleigh, Everhett, Easton, Rhyan, Elsie, and Tommie Stewart; and Lori, Gabe, and Magnolia Beason.

He also leaves behind dear friends—the Reeves, Roper, Ethridge, Speir, and Owens families—and so many more whose lives were touched by his kindness.

His love, example, and memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

"A good man walks in integrity; his children are blessed after him." – Proverbs 20:7

A Funeral Service for Mr. Batchelor will be held Friday, August 15, 2025, 2:00 P.M., at the Chapel of Caldwell & Cowan, 1215 Access Road, in Covington, with interment following in Fairview Memorial Gardens, in Stockbridge. Freinds are invited to visit with the family at the funeral home Thursday, August 14, from 4:00 - 8:00 P.M.