Mr. Jesse Lawrence "Buddy" Byars

The heavenly chorus got louder May 9, 2024 as Buddy Byars’ booming voice joined in. Jesse Lawrence “Buddy” Byars was born September 30, 1935 in Easley, South Carolina to Reverend Jesse Clyde and Ruth Corn Byars. He dedicated his life to obedience of God and the love of His people. He served in the United States Air Force, carried mail for the United States Postal Service, and ministered to many with his music at College Street Baptist Church in addition to churches in the Walhalla, Westminster, and Keowee area for decades. Some know Jesse better by the name Reverend, others Daddy, Papa Buddy, or, to many, “your big buddy Buddy”. He now knows the esteem of being called the ultimate title by His heavenly father: a good and faithful servant. Buddy married Mildred Hendrix on July 25, 1957, and doted on her every moment of their 66 years together. When he eagerly displayed his “pride and joy” from his wallet to friends, it was a photo of Pride furniture polish and Joy dish soap. The true pride and joy of his heart, however, was the family he and Mildred created. His success is displayed through his succession. The lineage from their marriage affirms the Lord a generational God. Buddy’s delight was to be father to Larry (Beth) and Teresa Upton (Randy), Papa Buddy to Shanelle Marcengill (Lynn), Lauren Hamby (Derek), Kristen Upton, Will Byars (Kayla), Matthew Hooper, and Jonathan B. Hooper (Marcy). He had numerous great grandchildren, including a newborn great grandson named Jesse in his honor. Each time his family joined hands and he led prayer before a meal he was brought to tears with gratitude. God’s faithfulness through generations was unmistakable when the circle that once fit around a small table stretched from the kitchen and into the living room to include everyone. If life is a relay race, his family is proud to receive Buddy’s baton and continue the race. Matthew 20:28 says “The son of man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus freely and joyfully served, and Buddy was honored to serve the Lord’s kingdom likewise. Buddy lived in the confidence that his daily actions had eternal implications. God uniquely blessed him to be generous with time and resources and to lead others well. He was intentionally active in the community through the Lions Club, the Walhalla High School Band Club, a youth breakfast ministry, a prison ministry, weekly devotions and breakfast with the Super Service staff, outreach at College Street Baptist Church, the Golden Fellowship, and the Crooked Creek Sunday services. His life proved his love for the Lord and his love for the people He created. Buddy’s legacy on earth is best represented by his well-worn, duct-taped Bible. Though his Bible was fractured, he is made whole. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 PM on Monday, May 13, 2024, at College Street Baptist Church. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM, prior to the service, at College Street Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: College Street Baptist Church, PO Box 340, Walhalla, SC 29691; Crescent Hospice, 305 W. Beltline Blvd., Anderson, SC 29625; or Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org. The family is at the respective homes.

Mr. Jesse Lawrence "Buddy" Byars

September 30, 1935 - May 9, 2024