A life of creativity, PERSEVERANCE, and surrendering to faith
R.J. Waiters
The Man Who Found Meaning and Peace
THE LIFE AND STORY
R.J. WAITERS
R.J. Waiters was more than just a name; he was a dynamic force of creativity, humor, and steadfast loyalty. His life, though too short, was a powerful testament to an unbreakable spirit of perseverance that inspired all who knew him.
Born on September 30, 1978, R.J. grew up with a vibrant energy that found its outlet in sports like football and Karate. His sharp mind was recognized early, leading to his placement in the "gifted and talented" program during grade school. He was a proud student of William Penn High School and went on to attend Wilmington University.
From a young age, R.J. developed a deep love for stories. He directed this passion into his calling as a gifted writer, becoming a published author. He released his first novel, "The Life," in October 2002, followed by several other compelling thrillers.
His artistic talent wasn't limited to the written word; he also had a keen eye for beauty, which he captured through his distinctive work as a photographer.
resilience and deepening faith
R.J. approached every chapter of his life, even the most difficult ones, with extraordinary courage. His journey was marked by immense internal and physical trials, including diagnosed severe mental health challenges throughout his entire life.
Although he had other medical issues, his fight against physical illness began in 2021, when a severe infection resulting from a cat bite rapidly spread up his leg, leading to his first life-changing amputation and subsequent kidney failure, which required intensive dialysis. Despite the immense ongoing trials, including a second amputation in 2025, R.J. viewed these experiences not as setbacks, but as chapters in a larger, meaningful narrative. He lived with a quiet but powerful faith, trusting in Elohim's plan for him and finding comfort in knowing he was seen and known.
His spiritual journey deepened dramatically after two separate medical crisis where he coded twice on the operating table. The total time it took medical staff to revive him across both surgeries was 75 minutes. This encounter completely shifted his perspective. He kept the details of this spiritual experience private for a period of time, but eventually spoke openly about the deep peace and new direction he gained, a testimony he shared with candor and hope. At the time of his passing, he was documenting this experience in a new book, "My 75 Minutes with the Angels," a powerful story about meeting "The Council" and receiving instructions on the mission he was to fulfill upon his return.
Legacy of love and service
R.J.’s life was defined by the depth of his connections. He is survived by Mollie, and their three daughters; Zaria, Alekzandria, and Topaz-Marie; his loving parents, Charles (III) and Teri; his maternal grandmother Roslyn; his sister, Crystal; his niece Chloe; and many cherished aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather; Frederick, paternal grandfather; Charles (Jr.) and his paternal grandmother; Verneida.
In his final years, R.J. became deeply rooted in the YMCA community, where he resided. Alongside his father, he became a pillar, requesting donations to be brought in by his dad, and hosting a heartfelt Father’s Day celebration. You can view footage of this celebration and a mini-documentary about his commitment on the Legacy page. One of his dearest memories was singing “Good Day” with his mother; you can listen to the song on the homepage. It was a moment that brought joy and light to them both.
final peace and honored wishes
In the first quarter of 2025, R.J. told his parents that it was time to surrender his life fully to Elohim. After years of fighting physical and internal battles, this choice brought him the deep sense of peace that he had long sought. Transmuting the internal and external voices finally brought him comfort, which carried him through his final months spent primarily in the hospital and rehabilitation center.
.Surrounded by the constant presence of his mother and frequent visits from his father, eldest daughter, sister and niece, R.J. embraced the reality of his situation, even openly telling a few family members that his birthday on September 30, 2025, would be his last.
R.J. also specifically requested that the news of his passing be announced publicly and simultaneously to all family and friends, reflecting the transparent way he shared his life. He wished for no funeral service or public celebration gatherings, believing that those who truly cared would have visited during his lifetime. His family honored these final requests with grace and love, prioritizing his desire for honesty and peace.
During these months, R.J. made a concerted effort to reconcile and find peace with family. While not all were receptive, R.J. chose to maintain his peace and avoid conflict, remaining loving and present to the very end.
His final earthly resting place is at Hickory Grove Cemetery in Middletown, Delaware.
His final hope for the YMCA community was that a Bible study to be started by his father in his honor and that the brotherhood built during his last years would continue after his passing, shining faith and unity into the future. His family is committed to honoring and carrying forward this legacy of service and love.
R.J. Waiters did it! He finished well!
We invite you to share your favorite memory of R.J. for the Memories page.
A Tribute from R.J's sister: "Called by name"
R.J. Waiters, a son, with strength and with grace,
Found his footing in sport, at his own steady pace.
From William Penn's halls to a wider worldview,
A love for the story in all that he knew.
He captured the light with a lens and a page,
Crafting thrillers that turned a new stage.
"The Life" was the first, but his own was the art,
A tale of resilience etched on the heart.
When trials arrived and his body was changed,
His spirit, unbroken, was rearranged.
He wrote of the angels, of moments between,
A testament to the life he had seen.
A father, a brother, a son, and a friend,
His love for his family will never know end.
He gave thanks to Elohim, who called him by name,
A whisper of peace in a life's burning flame.
"But now, this is what the LORD says he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: 'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.'" (Isaiah 43:1)
LEGAL
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