Buzz Porter

1936 - 2021

Buzz Porter,85, peacefully passed on Thursday, July 22, 2021, at AdventHealth Daytona Beach. He was surrounded by his loving family. He arrived at Heaven's Gate where he joined those who preceded him in death, his mother, Louise "Ludy" Porter; father, Oscar "Buzz Sr." Porter; brother, Keith Porter; sister, Annie Spadie; son-in-law, Delmus Wilkinson.
Buzz is survived by his five children, Terri Wilkinson, Laura Porter Bolduc (Ric), Paul "Buzzy" Porter, Brenda Whitlock (Charles), Brian Porter (Cassy); his eight grandchildren, Nikki Ballard, Whitney Frost, Brooke Whitlock, Brandon Whitlock, Tristen Porter, Dawson Porter, Ryanne Porter and Sarah Porter; one great-granddaughter, Jaycee Porter; his sisters, Lillian Ray Mattingly, Janice Culver (Dennis), Norma Canfield (Ron), Ellen Porter, Helen Porter; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who were a special part of his heart.
He was born in Bardstown on May 31, 1936, and graduated from Bardstown High School in 1954. After graduation and during the Korean War he enlisted in the United States Marines. During his service, one of his privileged responsibilities was guarding the atomic bomb. After his military service he lived in Louisville, and attended Bellarmine College. He participated on the college cross-country and track team, breaking the cross-country record and winning the state championship in the mile run as a freshman.
He also worked as a private investigator in Louisville gaining a sixth sense that his children could never fool. In 1965 he started a landscape maintenance business where his children developed a strong work ethic that served as a catalyst to their later life successes. It was important for Buzz and his then wife Joan for their children to have a Catholic education. They attended St. Paul's Catholic School where Buzz served as treasurer of the PTA.
Buzz remained active in track and field throughout his life not only setting several world records, national and state titles, but also continuing his legacy through age 85. He was still training for more competitions up until his passing. His passion for living included traveling, many other sports, and he was a published author. He wrote his own memoir Running for My Life where he shared his many life adventures. He also wrote the autobiography of local and famous musician Tommy Brown.
Anyone who knows Buzz knew of his love for the USMC. "Once a Marine always a Marine" he would often be heard saying. He was a life member of the Marine Corp League #658 serving on both the color guard and honor guard. He was instrumental in revitalizing this chapter during his time as a member. As an ardent Marine he felt his service was important especially when it came time to honoring Veterans who passed.
His children invite you to attend A Celebration of Life at the Forever Ranch, 3600 State Road 40, Ormond Beach, Fla. on Saturday, Aug. 7, at 6 p.m. Immediately following services, family and friends are invited to share their memories, followed by dinner, music and celebration. Please join us to honor the life of Buzz Porter, the father, the brother, family member, the friend.
Pinello Funeral Home. 1036 Derbyshire Road, Holly Hill, Fla., is in charge of arrangements.