A.R "Buddy" Dike

1935 - 2025

A.R "Buddy" Dike

December 17, 1935 - July 8, 2025

Fort Worth, Texas - A.R. "Buddy" Dike, a devoted family man, respected businessman, and diehard Horned Frog, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at the age of 89 in Fort Worth, the city he proudly called home.

Born in Evansville, Indiana, on December 17, 1935, Buddy made his way to Texas to attend Texas Christian University, where he played football and quickly made a name for himself both on and off the field. It was there he met the love of his life, Sara Beth Waters. Together, they raised four children: David, Scott, Michael, and Susanne, instilling in them character, purpose, and generosity. Their family grew to include nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, a legacy that brought Buddy immense pride. He often said that Sara was "the main reason for any success that I've had," a reflection of the partnership that anchored him through every chapter.

At TCU, Buddy's presence on the football field was unmistakable. Wearing number 38, he served as captain of the Horned Frogs in 1957. He was later inducted into the TCU Lettermen's Hall of Fame and in 1978, was honored as a TCU Valuable Alumnus. Long after his playing days ended, Buddy remained one of TCU's most loyal supporters, rarely missing a game and proudly cheering on the Horned Frogs from the stands.

After graduating from TCU, Buddy made Fort Worth his permanent home. He founded The Dike Company, Inc. in 1966, establishing himself as a trusted presence in life insurance and estate planning. His leadership extended throughout the industry: he served as president of the Fort Worth Association of Life Underwriters, the Fort Worth Society of Financial Service Professionals, and the Fort Worth Business & Estate Council. In 2017, his firm joined Higginbotham, where he served as executive vice president until retirement.

Buddy's impact extended well beyond business. He was a generous supporter of causes close to his heart, serving on the boards of the TCU Board of Trustees, the Board of TCU Athletics, the Cotton Bowl Athletic Association, and the Davey O'Brien Foundation. Additionally, he was the founder of the Breakfast Tip Club of Fort Worth, serving as its president in 1961 and a member of the Exchange Club of Fort Worth since 1983. One of the legacies dearest to him was the Scott Dike Memorial Scholarship at TCU, established in honor of his son to support student-athletes and carry forward the values that defined both their lives.

Those who knew Buddy will remember his steady resolve, clear sense of purpose, and the pride he carried in every role he held as a husband, father, business professional, civic leader, and friend. He had a deep love for the game of golf and played at Shady Oaks every chance he got, where he served as Club President. He never missed a Sunday paper, took pride in his sharp instinct for calling the horse races, believed in a family brunch laden with eggs, and never passed up the chance to talk about TCU football. Known for his firm handshake and commanding presence, Buddy made everyone around him feel heard and valued. He loved and was wholly committed to his family and his dear friends. A man of faith, Buddy was a longtime member of University Christian Church, where he found community and purpose. His legacy of kindness, dedication, and unwavering integrity will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Buddy is survived by his wife Sara, his children David (Beth), Michael (Stephanie), and Susanne (Jason), and nine grandchildren Taylor (John), Ellen, Audrey (Andrew), Marshall, Ben, Elizabeth, Sara, Ethan, Charlie and four great-grandchildren Avery, Jack, Charlotte and Sophie and his two siblings Shirley and David (Barbara) and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, at University Christian Church, 2720 S. University Drive, Fort Worth, Texas, with a reception to follow at Shady Oaks Country Club, 320 Roaring Springs Road, Westworth Village, Texas. Please wear purple.

If you wish to make a donation in Buddy's memory, please consider a gift to The Scott Dike Memorial (817-257-7800), or a donation of your choice.