James Richard Waddill (November 22, 1842 – June 14, 1917) was a Democratic U.S. Representative from Missouri's 6th congressional district for one term.

Waddill supported the Union during the American Civil War, enlisted as a private in the 8th Missouri Cavalry Regiment, and resigned in 1863 as a first lieutenant.

Later newspaper articles referred to him as "major" and "colonel", suggesting he continued to serve in the state militia.

In 1896 he was a candidate for the Democratic nomination for Governor of Missouri, but withdrew at the state convention when it became clear that Lon Vest Stephens had the support of enough delegates to win.

Waddill later engaged in a mining operation near Joplin, Missouri, and then relocated to Deming, New Mexico, where he practiced law and served as prosecuting attorney of the 6th Judicial District.