Florida
Remembering William “Buddy” Boles, Jr.: A Lifelong Pensacola Resident and Faithful Servant
William Joseph Boles Jr., known lovingly to all as “Buddy,” passed away on July 9, 2026, at the age of 86. He was born on June 29, 1940, in Lowell, Florida, to the late William J. Boles Sr. and Willie…
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Key points
- William “Buddy” Boles, Jr. passed away at 86, leaving behind a legacy of faith and service.
- He served in the U.S. Army and enjoyed a long career at Monsanto before dedicating his life to ministry.
- Buddy is survived by his wife, children, and many grandchildren, with funeral services planned for July 16, 2026.
William Joseph Boles Jr., affectionately known as “Buddy,” passed away on July 9, 2026, at the age of 86. Buddy was born on June 29, 1940, in Lowell, Florida, and was raised in a family that instilled strong values. His parents, William J. Boles Sr. and Willie Mae Boles, laid the foundation for a life dedicated to service and faith.
At eighteen, Buddy enlisted in the United States Army alongside his best friend, Norman Simmons, embodying a spirit of camaraderie and commitment. After his honorable discharge, he began a notable career with Monsanto, where he dedicated thirty-three years of service. However, Buddy’s most profound calling came at a young age when he accepted Christ into his life at just eleven years old. This decision ultimately led him to the Gospel Ministry, where he was ordained on June 24, 1979.
Throughout his career at Monsanto, Buddy also served as Associate Pastor at Beulah Baptist Church and Windy Hill Baptist Church. Following his retirement, he fully committed to pastoral ministry, leading Pine Barron Baptist Church and later serving as Pastor of Enon Baptist Church for fifteen years.
Outside of his ministry and work, Buddy was known for his love of the outdoors, particularly hunting and drag racing, and cherished moments spent watching his children and grandchildren play sports. Friends and family remember him as a man of integrity and unwavering faith, always willing to lend a helping hand.
Buddy was preceded in death by his first wife, Linda Boles, with whom he shared 41 years of marriage, as well as his parents and siblings. He is survived by his wife Brenda, his children Allison Abramowitz (Chris), Shannon Boles (Sandy), and Jason Boles (Shannon), alongside stepchildren and a multitude of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry on his legacy of love and kindness.
His life serves as a testament to God’s grace, and he is now at rest, embraced by the Savior he has served for over seventy years. Funeral services will take place on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, with visitation for family at 11:30 a.m. and for friends starting at noon. Pastor Dale Patterson will officiate the ceremony.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
Based on reporting originally published by Faith Chapel Funeral Home (Pensacola). Read the original story.
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