Picture from 1973 JFRD Yearbook

Retired Firefighter Engineer Buddy F. O'Steen, 76 passed away Friday, March 25, 2011 with his loved ones by his side. Born June 15, 1934, in Jacksonville, he was the son of the late Evelyn Saxon Bowers. Buddy Graduated from Andrew Jackson High School in 1953. He retired from the Jacksonville Fire Rescue in 1990 after 35 years of service. He also served in the Florida Air National Guard, 125th Security Police Sq. and retired as a Master Sergeant with 30 years of service to our state and nation. Buddy received numerous decorations and awards during his careers in the Fire Rescue and the military. Buddy was a member of EZRA Lodge #67, Scottish Rite 32nd degree, Royal Order of the Jesters, Morocco Shriners and was the Director of the Morocco Spitfires for over 30 years. Buddy was a member of the Jacksonville Gator Club and Bled Orange and Blue. "Another Gator got his wings"!! His family includes his wife Barbara of 51 years, daughter, Kim O'Steen, two grandchildren, Justin Chaires and Ashley Chaires. Visitation was held on Wednesday March 30, 2011 from 6-8 pm for the public located at Hardage Giddens Funeral Home, 4315 Main St. Jacksonville, Fl.32206. Services were held on Thursday March 31, 2011 at 11:00am at Franklin Street Baptist Church, located at 2521 Franklin Street Jacksonville, Fl. 32206 with Pastor Terry Gore officiating. Interment with honors provided by JFRD Honor Guard followed at Evergreen Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 4315 Main St., and 904-356-6585. Condolences may be shared at www.hardage-giddensmainst.com .