Walter Linner Widdowson

Walter Linner Widdowson, 88, of Green Cove Springs, Fl passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2020 and stepped into heaven, escorted by Jesus himself.

He was born in Westover MD on February 27, 1932 Parents were Clay E. and Esther Leibrand Widdowson. Walt graduated from high school in Princess Anne, MD and then attended the University of Maryland, where he received his BS degree. From there he received a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Georgia’s School of Veterinary Medicine. He served in the US Air Force and was honorably discharged with the rank of captain. He returned to Maryland to a private veterinary practice for a few years before returning to the scholastic world of medicine. He went to Auburn University where he received a Master’s degree in small animal surgery. He returned to another alma mater, UGA, to teach surgery and small animal medicine.

He then moved to Florida to settle into several small animal practices and ultimately his own private practice until he retired.

He was married to Linda Altman Widdowson of Sylvania, GA for 62 years. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Jacksonville where he served for many years as both a deacon and Sunday school teacher. He enjoyed following Christ and led others to follow in his footsteps. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and spending time in the woods with his family. He enjoyed working in his yard and scuba diving trips as a family to the Caribbean. He sure enjoyed cheering on the Dawgs during football season. He will be remembered by many as a teacher and mentor. At one time there were approximately 15 or 16 local veterinarians that he had taught at either UGA or AU in the Jacksonville area.

He is preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, a sister, one sister-in-law and one brother-in-law.

He is survived by his wife Linda Altman Widdowson of Green Cove Springs, his son Ray Widdowson (Ryan Gerhardt) of Green Cove Springs, his daughter Julie Dorough (Mike Dorough) of Gainesville, GA, grandchildren, John Michael Dorough (Holly), Holly Ann Ward (Scott Ward), Clay Widdowson, and two sisters-in-law.

We are so sorry but due to the Corona Virus there will be no viewing or public service. We ask for your thoughts and prayers at this time.