Caddell Construction founder John A. Caddell dies at 93

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - John A. Caddell, the founder of Caddell Construction, has died at the age of 93, the company announced.

The company said Caddell died peacefully, surrounded by family, on Monday.

“There just aren’t enough words to describe the influence John Caddell had on the construction industry as a whole,” said Caddell Construction CEO Eddie Stewart. “He was an absolute icon, and someone we should all aspire to be like. His influence over Caddell Construction is evident every single day, and his guidance in my own life is impossible to overstate. I will truly miss him more than words can say.”

Funeral arrangements have not been announced.

Caddell was a lifelong Montgomery resident. He graduated from Lanier High School before attending the Georgia Institute of Technology. He earned a degree in building construction in 1952.

Caddell founded Caddell Construction with his wife, Joyce, in 1983, initially working from their family home. The company grew into a nationally recognized firm and became an industry leader with more than $16 billion in projects in 36 countries, according to the company.

John and Joyce Caddell were married for 66 years until Joyce’s death in March, 2017. John... — John and Joyce Caddell were married for 66 years until Joyce’s death in March, 2017. John always credited Joyce for much of his success, including her role as a co-founder of Caddell Construction in 1983.(Source: Caddell Construction)

His grandson Mac Caddell said, “He didn’t just inspire The Caddell Way, he truly lived it out. I am committed to seeing that legacy continue through the company that my grandparents —and so many others—worked so sacrificially to build. His legacy will far outlive his 93 years on earth.”

Among Caddell’s numerous awards and distinctions are his inclusions in the Associated General Contractors Hall of Fame and Alabama Business Hall of Fame.

John and Joyce Caddell were very active in several civic and charitable roles, including scholarship establishments at multiple universities, as well as the John and Joyce Caddell Sculpture Garden at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts.

A strong family man, John Caddell enjoyed working with many of his children during his career.... — A strong family man, John Caddell enjoyed working with many of his children during his career. In 2018, a multi-year transition from family-owned Caddell Construction, Inc. to employee-owned Caddell Construction, LLC was completed. His grandson, Mac Caddell, now serves as President and COO.(Source: Caddell Construction)

Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed released this statement after Caddell’s death:

“On behalf of the City of Montgomery, our prayers are with the family and friends of John Caddell. For nearly a century, John was a bright light for central Alabama. As a Montgomery native, John not only built a billion-dollar-business here with his wife, Joyce, through his extraordinary vision, hard work and skill, but he built up our entire community through his generosity and dedication to service. John was an avid supporter of Montgomery’s arts and culture, civic organizations and nonprofits, and he left an indelible mark upon many institutions in the region. He embodied the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation, and his legacy will inspire future generations of leaders in Montgomery and beyond.”

Sign up for the WSFA Newsletter and get the latest local news and breaking alerts in your email!

Copyright 2023 WSFA. All rights reserved.