Elvis Dewitt “Buddy” Readlinger was born on Aug. 3, 1949. He was a resident of Pine. Buddy went home to his eternal resting place on Feb. 24, 2018, at Tulane Medical Center in New Orleans, following a courageous two-and-a-half month illness and complications resulting from whipple surgery to remove pancreatic cancer.

He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. Buddy was also an entrepreneur, businessman and diligent worker ready to tackle the next project to provide for those he loved. Buddy was a graduate of Bogalusa High School and Southeastern Louisiana University. He served his country proudly in the U.S. Marine Corps and was a Presidential Guard during his tenure.

His work ethic and demeanor as “once a Marine, always a Marine” carried him throughout his entire life. Buddy began his career at the Multi-Wall Plant and transitioned to Sales Representative for Crown Zellerbach Corporation. He owned and operated multiple businesses over the years including Movieland with two locations, B&B Cleaners, Annie B’s Restaurant, 449 Bar, Paper Converting of Bogalusa, an automotive body shop and Your Name In Lites. After his retirement, he worked from home building handmade cypress swings and products at Buddy’s Woodworks and most recently began his last venture with two locations of Buddy’s Carwash.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Kimberly McKenzie Readlinger; two sons, Chad Readlinger and Brandon Readlinger; step-son, Jacob Seal; grandson, Tyler Dewitt Readlinger; constant companion, Hank; brother and sister-in-law, Gene and Julie Readlinger of Douglasville, Ga.; sister, Mary Tilton of Bristol, Pa.; special nephew, Joe Readlinger; lifelong best friend, Joe Ard Williams; friend, Charlie Easterling; nephews, Gene Tilton and David Readlinger; and a host of special friends and neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gertrude Boyd Readlinger and Eugene Readlinger; grandmother, Lena White Boyd; and father-in-law, James D. McKenzie.

Visitation was held at Poole-Ritchie Funeral Home in Bogalusa on Tuesday, Feb. 27, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. The funeral service was held at 4 p.m., with the Rev. Larry Lassley officiating. Full military service was presented by Magic City American Legion Post #24. Burial will be private.

To view and sign the guestbook, visit online at www.pooleritchiefuneralhome.com.