Owen E. "Buddy" Loudermilk Jr.

Owen E. "Buddy" Loudermilk Jr. left his earthly body in the beauty and quiet blanket of snow at his home in Pisgah Forest Feb. 13, 2014, following a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born Aug. 20, 1950, in Augusta, Ga., where he lived until attending college and receiving an engineering degree in Florida. After completing college, Buddy worked for FL Power and Light. He returned to Augusta, Ga., when his mother became ill. In 1981, Buddy moved to Transylvania County and opened Buddy's Plumbing Repair.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Owen E. Loudermilk Sr., Elizabeth I. Loudermilk, sisters Julie L. Buck and Margaret L. Dorn.

Surviving are his wife Patricia P Loudermilk; son Brad and his wife Elise of Springfield, Va.; daughter Kelly and her husband Ashley Miles of Etowah; Carrie Blackburn of Graniteville, S.C., and Timothy D Brown of Pisgah Forest. Buddy has three wonderful grandchildren Adam, Katelyn and Olivia. He is also survived by many loving nieces, great nieces and many loving friends.

Buddy was a member of Etowah United Methodist Church where he worked with Methodist Men Flea market and Fishes and Loaves food pantry.

In lieu of flowers Buddy asked that donations be made to the capital debt of Etowah United Methodist Church, PO Box 1268, Etowah, NC 28729.

A service of life will be held at Etowah United Methodist Church at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014, with Rev. Brice Harris officiating.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com.

Thos. Shepherd and Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of arrangements.