Alger Batts Jr.

I met Buster when he and his family moved to Wake Forest, N.C. around 1957. We were classmates, then he became my first real boyfriend, something you never truly forget. He returned to Wake Forest for several reunions and we always thought of him as one of our group. I send love and deepest sympathy to his family on behalf of myself and the other members of the Wake Forest High School Class of '63.

I have just learned of Buster's passing from Jeff Butler this week. We have lost a good man and dear friend. I met Buster when I first came to UR as an assistant basketball coach in '78. He made me feel right at home when I first met him. My wife Sharon and I will miss him a great deal as many other family and friends will. Sincerely, Joe and Sharon Gallagher

My prayers go out to Buster's family. He was such a wonderful person and friend. I remember a time at Freeman when they were having a talent show, my sister, Rae Owens, went to Freeman and was a good friend of Busters. I was 3 years younger and in a big crowd of people being pushed around getting into where the show was going to be. Out of the blue a big man appeared, It was Buster (i didn't know him). He said hold on to my hand or you will get lost in this crowd. And he held my hand...

I first saw Buster in the chow line of the old refectory in 1963 after reading of his basketball exploits at DSF. Had the pleasure of knowing him over the next four years at UR. Always enjoyed seeing him at Spider functions or most recently at the grocery store. He always had a smile and a kind word. He will be greatly missed!

I first met "Buster" when he was with Bingham GMC and then again later when he was with Carter. I greatly enjoyed our conversations and his help was graciously given when the need arose.

Jim Martin
Vinton

To the Batts family,
I went to DSF with Buster and loved to watch him play ball. He was a gentle giant even then.

Donna Fay Cuthrell Kessel
class of 1964

Trey and Cory,
Even though it was 25-30 years ago some of my most vivid childhood memories are of your dad in Salem. I am very sorry for your loss.

I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR OF THE LOSS OF A SPECIAL PERSON , BUSTER, I WORKED WITH HIM AT CARTER MACHINERY MANY YEARS BACK. THE WORLD HAS LOST BUT HEAVEN HAS GAINED.

Buster taught me many things, but especially that as long as there is love, there will be Santa Claus. I have passed that along to my children and grandchildren. For as long as we all live, Buster will, too. I love him and you all dearly.