Billy Gene Whiteley, better known as Buddy, formerly of Waldron, Arkansas, passed from this life, Sunday, August 11, 2024 with his loving family by his side. Buddy was born February 22, 1949 in Belton, Texas to Marlin and Ludie Mae (Morgan) Whiteley. He was 75 years old.
Buddy was a loving husband and father with the patience of Job. In the words of his son, “no one could have been a better father”. Buddy was a man of God who was not afraid to share his faith in the Lord. He was a man of his word and had the biggest heart for helping anyone in need.
Buddy was a bull rider and established Whiteley Bull Pen in Texas where he spent many hours helping young bull riders get started in the business. He was a mentor to many young men in all aspects of life. Buddy was the definition of an old fashioned cowboy in every way possible. He believed and lived by a code of ethics rarely found today. Buddy also owned a tire business making friends everywhere his travels would take him. He touched many hearts and will be truly missed.
Buddy leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving and devoted wife of 38 years, Barbara of the home; two sons, Cody Allen Whiteley of Fort Smith, Arkansas and Billy Gene Heiner and wife Cindy of Glen Rose, Texas; one daughter Brandy Lee Hilliard and husband Guy of Harker Heights, Texas. Papa will forever remain in the hearts of his grandchildren: Destiny Whiteley of Lawton, Oklahoma; Savanna Carman and husband Tristan of Harker Heights, Texas; Hailey Hilliard of Harker Heights, Texas; Ravyn White and husband Kellan of Thornton, Texas; Skylar Heiner of Elm Mott, Texas; Burgandi Heiner of Waco, Texas; Jacoby Heiner of Gatesville, Texas; Sierra Heiner of Glen Rose, Texas; and Corey Whiteley of Lawton, Oklahoma; and great grandchildren Beau Huber, Ellie May Carman, Braelee White, Sarah Jeaux White, Royce White, Keygun Heiner, Kodie Heiner, Wyatt Heiner, Waelynn Heiner, Walker Heiner, Harper Heiner, Greyson Heiner and Everest Heiner. Buddy is also survived by one sister, Judy Vick of Texas. He will be missed by all that knew him and the many whose lives he impacted including numerous beloved nieces and nephews; friends, neighbors, loved ones and his beloved cowboys.
Buddy is preceded in death by his parents Marlin and Ludie Mae Whiteley; son, Leroy Whiteley; brothers: Marlin Jr.; Leroy Whiteley and Marvin (Sonny) Whiteley; and sisters: Margie Turner and Margaret Whiteley.
Buddy’s family will host a private celebration of life at a later date.
Arrangements and cremation are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory in Waldron, Arkansas.
