Lewis Shields Garland Jr., “Buddy,” age 76, of Varina, Va., went to be with the angels on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2013.

 

Buddy worked over 50 years with Virginia Department of Transportation. His favorite pastime was fishing and boating at Gwynn’s Island on the bay.

 

He worked with Varina Little League and always enjoyed a good baseball game. He served his country in the Army Reserve for 11 years.

 

Buddy was born Jan. 11, 1937 to the late Lewis and Olga Garland.

 

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mae Bennett Garland; his six children, Ginger Talley, Rocky Garland (Angie), Chip Garland (Karen), Paige Ramer (Michael), Kasey Valentino and Butch Taylor (Dawn). He was a loving Papa to 11 grandchildren, Tiffany, Kasey, Emily, Jessi, Sam, Taylor, Thane, Chloe, Caston, Sissy Mae and Cameron, and two great-grandchildren, Trace and Pierson. Buddy was a loving brother to Barbara Craft (Jerry) and Bill Bennett (Joyce); and his friend who was like a son, Gary Fuqua. Loved by many, friends to all, Best Dad in the World, Great Papa and Best Brother.

 

The family received friends on Monday, Dec. 2, from 5-8 p.m. at Nelsen Funeral Home, 4650 S. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, where services were held Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment followed at Varina Episcopal Church Cemetery. 

 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Henrico Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 911, Sandston, Va. 23150.