John Scoggins

John Scoggins, Lt. Col (ret.), after a long and exceptional life, finally held still long enough to go to his Lord and Savior on October 12, 2025. Born June 2, 1931, near Weaverville NC, the doctor was delayed in delivering the birth certificate, so it was recorded as June 4, 1931 (the doctor also forgot to include John’s middle name). John lived a life devoted to service of country, community, and family – a tall man with a big heart.

John was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years Evelyn Virginia Morelle Scoggins, daughter Carlene Peavy, granddaughter Valerie Schroder, parents William Doser Scoggins and Glene Robinson Scoggins, and siblings Bille Lois “Peggy” Conyer, Eva Louise Nolan, and Thomas “Eddie” Scoggins, and many other relatives and dear friends.

John is survived by his daughter Holly Scoggins (Joel Shuman), his wife of 11 years Betty Wansley, children Wesley Wansley (Beth), Benet Wansley Berryman (Kane), Jeff Wansley (Jacquie), several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Also, Carlene’s children Andrea Gill and Jon Jenkins, nephew Erik Conyers (Michelle), nieces Pam Stopczynski and Jena Kirkman, and many other relatives.

John’s early life was spent with his family traveling between Weaverville, NC and Detroit, MI; he helped his family by always working multiple jobs. He excelled in sports; leading the Weaverville High School basketball team to their first state championship. He went on to play baseball and basketball on scholarship at what was then Asheville-Biltmore College (now UNC-Asheville).

John enlisted in 1952 during the Korean war and received his Commission in 1954 at Officer Candidate School. He went on to serve for 20 years in the U.S. Army, retiring as Lt. Col. He was awarded the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, and many other recognitions of distinguished service. He served tours in Korea, Vietnam, and Europe. His specialty was aviation, first fixed wing then helicopters, was a helicopter flight school instructor at the U.S. Army Aviation Center at Fort Rucker, and maintained his commercial pilot’s license through most of his life. Through the Army he was afforded the opportunity to obtain a Bachelor’s in general education from the University of Nebraska-Omaha, a Master of Military Science from Command and General Staff College, and a Master of Education equivalent from the University of Maryland and University of Kentucky. He earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Georgia as his military service shifted into the emerging field of management information systems prior to retirement in 1974.

During his time at UGA, John, Evelyn, and Holly fell in love with the area, and set their sights on returning post-retirement, purchasing a farm in Danielsville. Unsurprisingly, retirement didn’t last long; soon he was on faculty at UGA’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government for eight years, then formed his own consulting service, John Scoggins and Associates, and assisted over 200 state and local governments and agencies across the U.S. with computer systems acquisitions. He was a leader in several associations related to both information systems and public administration, providing training and authoring many articles and manuals until yet another “retirement” in 2002.

John’s drive to help others led him to public office, included election to the 24th district in the Georgia House of Representatives for two terms (1993-1997), and election to the Madison County Board of Commissioners. In 2005 he took a leadership role at ACTION Inc., helping rebuild and reorganize this important community service.

Meanwhile back at the ranch: As his interest in cattle farming grew, he co-founded the Northeast Georgia Livestock Auction Barn and served as Chairman of the Board and President. He was a charter member of the National Cattlemen’s Association and very active in the local chapter. He loved all aspects of farming (hay season!) but as life slowed a little, he transitioned the farm into a hunting preserve. Up until the last few months of his life, he was out on the farm almost daily, bush hogging or clearing land with his beloved skid steer; he was happiest when covered in dirt and diesel.

He was a very proud and active member of the Madison County Rotary Club and helped grow the amazing handicap ramp program. Other efforts included volunteering for Meals on Wheels and other civic organizations, and was co-owner of the Madison County Journal.

John loved the Lord and worshipped at Danielsville United Methodist Church, teaching adult Sunday school and serving as lay leader. He cared for his beloved wife and friend Evelyn throughout an extended illness until the end of her life. John then considered himself incredibly lucky to find love once again with Betty Wansley.

John touched so many lives - and so many people returned the favor - it is impossible to list you all here. Our heartfelt thanks. We also appreciate Mary Jo Johnson and the wonderful care team she assembled to help him at the end of his life.

All are welcome to join us to celebrate a long and impactful life of service and leadership, that he’d agree was a life very well lived.

Lord & Stephens Funeral Home will handle arrangements. The family will receive friends at the Danielsville location on Wednesday Oct. 15, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. Funeral services with military honors will be held at Danielsville United Methodist Church Thursday Oct. 16 at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Danielsville Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, consider contributing to the Madison County Rotary’s Handicap Ramp Project as they build their 1000th ramp on October 18th! Checks can be mailed to P.O. Box 596 Danielsville, GA 30633.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, Danielsville, is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com