Obituary

Elvis Dewitt "Buddy" Readlinger
August 03, 1949 - February 24, 2018


Elvis Dewitt “Buddy” Readlinger, age 68 and a resident of Pine, went home to his eternal resting place on February 24, 2018 at Tulane Medical Center inNew Orleans, following a courageous two and 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 United States Marine Corp 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 2 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 will be held at Poole-Ritchie Funeral Home in Bogalusa, LA on Tuesday, February 27, 2018 from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. Funeral service will be held at 4:00 P.M. with Rev. Larry Lassley officiating. Full military service presented by Magic City American Legion Post #24. Burial will be Private.