Gilbert Lee "Buddy" Crist Jr.

Gilbert Crist, known as “Papa Buddy” to his grandchildren, Nicholas, Shannon Krier (Ben), Nathan, Trenton, Brooke and Shane, passed away at his home in Lanexa on May 15, 2018. He died at home from complications of pancreatic cancer, while surrounded by his loved ones. Buddy was born in Charlottesville, VA on May 20, 1934. He served in the US Army in the military police branch at Camp Peary and later retired from there, after a 37-year long career as a civilian employee in the public works department. In addition, he also worked a part-time job at the former Williamsburg Pottery for many years, as a security officer. After retirement, Buddy continued staying active working part-time jobs; one of which was at the Lightfoot Market, owned by his best friend, Happy Stout. After the closing of the market store, he took up, yet another part-time job in maintenance at the Lord Paget Hotel in Williamsburg, where he enjoyed meeting many new friends. Buddy was preceded in death by his father, Gilbert L. Crist, Sr.; mother, Ruby Fortune Stevens; and stepfather, Robert Stevens. He is survived by his dearly loved friend and partner, Gladys Quillian Allen. He is also survived by the mother of his children, and former spouse, Margaret Madeline Woodruff; children, Tony Crist (Rose), Melinda Martin (Jeff), and Jennifer Hudgins (Troy); siblings, Henrietta Kish, Joanne Mathews Kocur (Joe), Georgia Sandoval (Johnny), Vickie Meranda (Mark) and Bob Stevens (Laura); and many, nieces, nephews and cousins. Buddy had a multitude of friends that he enjoyed meeting at local restaurants; the Hardee’s bunch, Ihop, and most recently Jimmy’s Pizza (Moe), where they dined almost daily. In addition, Buddy had many interests including; NASCAR, Fox News, Redskins, and his favorite singer and entertainer, Jimmy Fortune, who is also his cousin, and was formerly of the Statler Brothers. Lastly, he loved traveling. Some of his favorite places were Alaska, Hawaii, Outer Banks, Caribbean cruises and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Above all, Buddy loved life. He will be dearly missed by many. The family would like to give thanks to Nurse Cindy of At Home Care Hospice for her support during his final journey. In lieu of flowers, the family would like contributions to be made to Christ Community Church building fund and Toano James City-Bruton Volunteer Fire Department. On July 20th, both visitation and the service will be held at Christ Community Church, 9001 Richmond Road, Toano, VA 23168. Visitation will be 4pm-6pm, with the service following. Casual attire requested, as Buddy would have preferred.

Gilbert Lee "Buddy" Crist Jr.

May 20, 1934 - July 15, 2018