Eli “EL” Leonidas Padgett, age 73, of Macclenny, Florida, passed away on Monday, August 17, 2026, at St. Vincent’s Clay after suffering a medical emergency. Born on April 19, 1953, in Live Oak to Emory and Winnifred (Boatright) Padgett, he had called Baker County home all his life.
EL was a Godly man, devoted husband, beloved father, doting grandfather, cherished great-grandfather, as well as a loving brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. He owned and operated Baker Salvage in Glen St. Mary for 39 years. EL’s kindness and willingness to help our community left a lasting impression on so many. He had a love for bluegrass music, dirt tracks, visiting with his customers, the Florida Gators, and car shows. But there was no greater love than what he gave his wife, boys, and grandbabies.
Preceded in death by his parents, EL leaves behind his beloved wife and soulmate of 52 years, 7 months, and 25 days, Sharon B. Padgett of Macclenny; sons, Chad Padgett and his wife, Michele of Lake City, Brad Padgett and his wife, Becky of Glen St. Mary, and Joel Padgett of St. George, Georgia; brother, RoAnn Padgett and his wife, Vicki of Glen St. Mary; sisters, Jaunice Padgett, Mayor of Glen St. Mary, and JoAnn Johns and her husband, Dennis of Orange Park; special aunt and uncle, Ingrid and Ronnie Boatright of Doctors Inlet; grandchildren, Jessica and Jason Atkins, Morgan and Jacob Strickland, Mason Filosi, Luke Padgett, Lincoln Padgett, Kaytlen Satterwhite, Kyleigh Satterwhite, Eli Padgett, and Penelope Padgett; great-grandchildren, Emmarie Atkins, Millie Atkins, and Brynlie Atkins; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Visitation with the Padgett family will be held 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Christian Fellowship Temple. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at CFT with Pastor David Thomas and Pastor Timmy Thomas officiating. Interment in Manntown Cemetery will follow.
Pallbearers will be Luke Padgett, Lincoln Padgett, Eli Padgett, RoAnn Padgett, Dennis Johns, Frank Ingram, and Gary Durrance.
Arrangements entrusted to the dedicated care of BLACKBURN-CURRY FUNERAL AND CREMATION, 380 N. Lowder Street, Macclenny, Florida 32063. 904-259-2806.