Dec. 18, 1924 – Sept. 23, 2012

NATCHEZ — Richard L. “Buddy” Fly, 87, a lifelong resident of Natchez, died Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at Magnolia House in Natchez.

In accordance with Buddy’s wishes, a private family ceremony, attended by a U.S. Marine Corps Honor Guard, was held Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2012, at the Natchez National Cemetery.

Mr. Fly was born Dec. 18, 1924, in Jackson, Tenn., the son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Fly. He moved with his family to the Natchez area when he was 5 years old. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II and earned a number of awards for his service in the South Pacific Theatre. He was united in marriage to Rose Tuccio in 1946.

Buddy was a modest man who was perhaps best known by the lonely, the sick and the poor of Natchez. For more than 40 years, his face was commonplace at nursing homes, hospitals and any other place where he could bring a few minutes of happiness to those who needed help.

As in life, Buddy’s death leaves a lasting impression on all who knew him. After being bedridden and unable to stand for a number of weeks, he was found at 4 p.m. on Sunday kneeling in prayer beside his bed where he peacefully died.

Buddy was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Robert; and three sisters, Marie, Wilma Lee and Bessie Mae.

Survivors include his wife, Rose; three daughters, Betty Anne Chauvin of Dallas, Judy Dewey of Germantown, Tenn, and Sandra Fly of Natchez; three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Buddy’s family would like to gratefully acknowledge and thank the wonderful staff at Magnolia House who so lovingly cared for him during the last months of his life.

Online condolences may be sent to www.lairdfh.com.