O.T. “Bud” Walz, 85, of Newnan passed away at his residence on Friday, Dec. 14, 2012.
He was born in Hannibal, MO on Nov. 20, 1937, to the late Otto and Edith Walz. He was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Jean W. Walz.
He was a loving father to Carolyn Kramlich (James) Sennett and Brenda (Dan) Joiner. In 2010, Bud married Rochelle L. Dyer, and his circle of loved ones grew to include Rochelle’s children, Steve (Tex) Dyer, and Vicky (Thomas) Chapman. Other survivors include his older sister, Dorothy W. Harms; twin sister, Darlene W. Walker; and brother, Kenneth G. (Peggy) Walz. Bud leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and loving friends.
Bud graduated from East Point’s Russell High School in 1944. At age 16, he became the youngest store manager for King Hardware Company.
After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Bud was employed by Tull Equipment Company, where he worked in sales and purchasing for 48 years. In his retirement years, Bud served the Lord at Unity Baptist Church, where he was a founding member of the Agape Sunday school class.
He served the Newnan community as president of the local AARP, board member of Senior Friends and volunteer at Piedmont Newnan Hospital.
Bud will be remembered for his outgoing, friendly nature and his wonderful, positive attitude. He never met a stranger, and he made everyone feel welcome in his home and in his church.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, at Higgins Hillcrest Chapel Funeral Home with Pastor Danny Wilson and Rev. Archie Slaton officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park.
The Agape Sunday school class is requested to gather before the service and sit together in honor of Bud. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to One Roof Ministries, 320-C Temple Avenue, Newnan, GA 30263.
Online condolences may be sent to www.higginshillrestchapel.com .
Higgins Hillcrest Chapel Funeral Home, Newnan
