Courtland, VA  –  John P. Meador, Jr., known to many as “Jeff,” age 74, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025, after a life lived with candor, connection, and strength. A proud native Virginian, Jeff spent the last 30 years in Courtland, where the Nottoway River became a sanctuary and source of joy. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean, he saw Virginia’s land as a gift; no place in the world ever quite compared, even though he had traveled far and wide.

Born in Richmond to John P. Meador, Sr. and Bettie Gunn Meador, Jeff was preceded in death by his parents and by his beloved wife, Jane Echols Meador, whom he missed deeply since her passing last year.

Jeff was a man who never minced words. Straightforward and direct, he had a gift for turning strangers into friends, especially if they were willing to sit a spell, swap stories, and enjoy smoked pork or something off the grill with a beverage (or three). He was an avid reader, a devoted fisherman, and someone who found peace in the outdoors and the rhythms of nature.

An electrician by trade, his career spanned decades. Contract work across Virginia in addition to a career spent at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Daddy made many good friends along the way.

Jeff is survived by his daughters, Adrienne Meador Murray of Lewes, DE, and Hillary Anne Turner of Suffolk, VA, as well as his sister, Virginia “Lee” Miller of Charlottesville, VA, all of whom he loved fiercely and without reservation.

His youngest daughter, Hillary, and her family, were tireless and constant companions in his final years. Hillary carried the weight of his care with grace, ensuring his comfort, preparing his favorite treats, and creating as many adventures as possible. Hillary filled Jeff’s days with joy, dignity, and love. Without her, he surely wouldn’t have stayed with us as long as he did. Her devotion was a gift to him and to all who loved him.

Though he could be ornery and stubborn at times, Jeff was never one to hide how he felt. His emotions ran deep, and his loyalty ran even deeper. He was passionate about his family’s history in Virginia and cherished the stories that connected generations. Some of his happiest memories were spent sailing open waters, studying genealogy, or quietly fishing with his daughters, especially out on the river in his boat.

In accordance with his wishes, Jeff was cremated. His ashes will be scattered in the mountains and on the water he loved so dearly, with the remainder interned with his wife in Charlottesville. He asked for no formal memorial, only quiet reflection by those who knew him best, as they return him to the places that gave him peace.

His absence leaves a deep ache, but his spirit will linger in every honest conversation, every cast line, and every backyard gathering where laughter and smoke fill the air.

We will miss him dearly.  Cremation Society of Virginia, Chesapeake Office, is assisting the family.  Friends and family may share online condolences at www.vacremationsociety.com