James “Buddy” Meade, 89, of Russellville, passed away Thursday, June 6, 2024 at Creekwood Nursing and Rehab in Russellville. He was born in Russellville, on June 29, 1934 to the late James Thomas Meade and Christine Herndon Meade. He was a U.S. Army veteran who served with the 82nd Airborne as a paratrooper. He retired from Rockwell as a tool & die engineer after working there for 20 years.
After retirement, he was a co-owner of Market Square Furniture and Appliance and served his community as a member of the Optimist Club. He was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church where he served as past Deacon and Trustee. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Betty Baird.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Fredia Taylor Meade; his sons, Jeff Meade and wife Kay of Russellville; Barry Meade and wife, Beth of Hopkinsville, Michael Meade and wife Diane of Gallatin, Tenn., and Jim Meade and wife Lisa of Hickory, N.C.; and his five grandchildren and several step-grandchildren and step-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life service for James “Buddy” Meade will be conducted at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 25, at First Baptist Church with Bro. Buddy Crabtree officiating. Visitation at First Baptist Church will be held from 1 p.m. until the service hour.
Memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church, 277 S. Main Street, Russellville, KY 42276.
Summers and Son Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.