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Cecil Delano Lanier
1937 - 2020
Cecil Delano Lanier
1937 - 2020
Obituary
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Cecil Lanier Obituary
Cecil Delano "Buddy" Lanier, 83, passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2020.
Cecil was born July 20, 1937 in Sneads, FL to Cecil and Molly Dykes Lanier. He graduated from Sneads High School in 1955. Cecil obtained a BS degree in Business Administration from Florida Southern and got a master’s degree from Florida State University in Counseling.
Cecil worked for the State of Florida for 34 years within the fields of Probation and Parole, Vocational Rehabilitation, and the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services. He also served in the USAF Reserves. After retirement he worked as a mediator and arbitrator for Mediations Plus.
Cecil dedicated his life to serving the Lord, his family, friends, and his local Pensacola community. He had an astounding amount of faith in God; his love for the Lord was evident in his life's actions and daily demeanor. He was a charter member of Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Pensacola and served in numerous roles. He was a member of the vestry, served as both senior and junior wardens, and taught Sunday School for many years; his faithfulness and dedication to the Kingdom of God was evident to many, and left a lasting impact on many people's lives in this regard. Cecil was also a familiar face within his Pensacola community. He served as the President of Florida State Employees Federal Credit Union. He was the President of the Community Drug and Alcohol Council, and also served on its board. He was a Boy Scout Leader, West Florida Hospital volunteer, and served meals to seniors at the Cobb Center. Cecil's heart was committed to service, and all who knew him could feel this gracious and kindhearted spirit. He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed spending time watching and attending University of Alabama football games. He also loved to golf with his friends, fish, read, solve crossword puzzles, and spend quality time with his loved ones.
Buddy was a devoted husband and centered his life around Jackie and his two girls; he was a wonderful father and a doting grandfather to his five grandchildren. He rarely missed an opportunity to see his children and grandchildren reach and overcome milestones. He was a compassionate, proud, and loyal supporter of his family, always boasting a cheerful smile. "Pa" was a profound leader in his family, setting an exceptional and everlasting example for his grandkids; his silly demeanor and lighthearted humor will surely be missed.
He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Shirley Lanier Parmer.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jacqueline; two daughters, Jillyn Lanier Grace (John) and Lisa Lanier Carter (Doug); five grandchildren, Bryant (Katie) Grace, Trey Carter, Katherine Grace, Kate Lanier Carter, and William Grace.
Private family service will be held with Fr. Rob Dixon and Fr. Roger Hungerford officiating. A celebration of Buddy's life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Holy Cross Episcopal Church, Pensacola, FL or the American Cancer Society.
32 Entries
Bebe Jones
February 11, 2023
I worked with Cecil at HRS-Economic Services, and just learned of his death today. A fine man, quick wit, respectful, smart ... a genuinely nice person. I enjoyed our opportunities to visit at statewide meetings. His love for his family was evident. My sincere condolences to each of you.
Lisa Burt
September 30, 2021
I was a little girl of about nine or maybe ten. We lived across the street. Several times we kids would be playing in our backyard when a snake would come up. My dad, as bad luck would have it, was often at work. You, as good luck would have it, somehow were at home. We could dial you up fast and in an instant you shot out your door with hoe in hand to protect all of us little ones. You would pop that snake in the head. I just thought of this today but I remember it like it was yesterday. I remember the safe feeling I had knowing you were there for us. Of course, my dad would have been too. However, you were the luck of the draw. I say all aces. I love you Mr. Lanier. I think of you often. I will see you in heaven. Look for me. I'll be the one with a yellow flower in her hair.
Lisa Burt
Roseanna Phillips
November 5, 2020
Cecil and I first crossed paths when he was with Vic Rehab and I was a young upstart with Developmental Services. He was always well dressed and upbeat, providing a role model to others that focused on caring professionalism. When he walked the halls of the office he greeted everyone by name and with a smile, waited to listen to both work and family issues, and left others better than when he arrived. It was a gift to know him. My condolences come with the prayer that his family will always remember his best years of devotion to them.
Ryan Driscoll
October 29, 2020
I met Mr. Lanier working at the credit union in 2012. It was a blessing to meet him them and I'm grateful for the opportunity. What a great man thoughts and prayers are with his family.
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Lucy Petree Hemming
October 20, 2020
Mr. Lanier was so special to me. From my teenage years to when I worked at Vocational Rehabilitation to my retirement years from My Pensacola CU, he was much-admired as a great boss, friend, supporter, for loving his family, and just an all-around good man. I had not seen him in over 10 years and he knew who I was immediately and I was very grateful for his friendship and support for over 50 years. Jackie, I am so sorry for this tremendous loss of your wonderful husband. I know you have so many memories that will remain in your heart.
Pam Sumblin
October 18, 2020
Buddy was such a delightful person to be around. I always loved his ability to make everyone laugh! I so admired his devotion to Jackie, his daughters and their families.
What a witness for Jesus- He spread love everywhere he went!!!
The Hill's
October 17, 2020
Sympathy and condolences to the family. May God be with him.
Sammy Arena
October 17, 2020
Buddy was always at all of our Byrd family reunions and was always the prime storyteller. I have many fond memories him and my mom's side of the family. He will truly be missed by his family and community.
Sharon George
October 15, 2020
I knew Mr. Cecil from the days of Pensacourt. He was the kindest person and always had a smile on his face. My day was always brighter when I saw Mr. Cecil. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Mike Berry
October 15, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with all your family and want you to know how much we enjoyed your Cecil. He seem to make the best of every situation and was extremely quick witted. I don’t think there was an aggressive bone in his body but he never backed away from a good discussion. He had a knack for nicknames and gave one of our coworkers the handle “acid tongue.” A truly appropriate designation. One of his favorite sayings was “I can’t believe you can get this tired getting in and out of a golf cart.” He will be truly missed and we will look forward to seeing him on our Resurrection day.
Jerauld Smith
October 15, 2020
I met Cecil when I first began work at HRS in 1979. Over the years I had the opportunity to spend time with him and to begin to know him. Always the gentleman and someone to try to emulate, a great role model. I am sure he had a positive influence on many people. He will be missed.
Lt. Col. Michael H. Sarra, USA (ret.)
October 15, 2020
Offering our sincere condolences during this time of deep sorrow. May God be with the family and friends. Commendations on your honorable service in the U.S. Air Force Reserve.
Joseph Anglin
October 15, 2020
Cecil was a very good man to talk with. About anything. He had wisdom. I was seeking Cecil for one more conversation when I learned of his death.
No doubt all who knew him will miss him. GOD bless his family.
Betty Bracken
October 14, 2020
Jackie & Family so sorry about Buddy. Love & Prayers for all of you.
Betty Bracken & Family
mike and wanda horgan
October 14, 2020
Very sad news indeed. What a great person Cecil was. And Jackie, his "bride", so sweet. Many years around Cecil starting in 1979 when he was Service Network Manger on Baylen Street. Great sense of humor, always upbeat and so well dressed. Never screwed up the courage but always wanted him to show me how he tied his ties as they were always so well knotted and stayed that way throughout the day. Condolences to Jackie and the entire family. The world has lost another nice guy.
Richard Gilmartin
October 14, 2020
I had the privilege of knowing Cecil when he was with VR and I always admired his intellect, his sincerity, and his focus on helping others.
Don Bell
October 14, 2020
I worked with Cecil for many years at HRS/DCF and as a fellow board member at FSEFCU. I also played golf with him from time to time. I enjoyed my friendship with Cecil over the years and will miss the verbal banter we would engage in. He could give the zingers but could also take them. Rest In Peace my friend.
Bill Simmons
October 14, 2020
As we go through life we meet rare individuals who have a profound positive impact on us. They make us better people. For me, Cecil was one of those. I first met Cecil as a young intern with Vocational Rehabilitation. He was my teacher and mentor. I learned a great deal from him. He expected excellence, he wanted things done right. But he was supportive and kind and helped me work through my mistakes. I must have made a lot. He soon gave me the nickname "rookie". That wasn't a compliment. But that's the thing, Cecil was an endearing person - and so darn funny. I will miss him greatly.
Martha Williams
October 14, 2020
Mr. Buddy Lanier has been a part of my life for over four decades. He made a lasting impression on my life and the lives of our entire family. To know Buddy Lanier was to love him. He was a man of great faith and compassion and his wonderful sense of humor always made me smile. I will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Mrs. Jackie, Jill, Lisa and all of his dear family. Rest in peace and love, Mr. Buddy.
Sue Nast
October 13, 2020
My condolences to Cecil's loving family. Cecil served on CDAC's board and was always so supportive of our work in the community. He was such a positive person, and always took the time to tell staff members how valuable their work is. He will truly be missed.
The Browne family
October 13, 2020
Offering our sincere condolences during this time of deep sorrow. Godspeed.
Maureen McGill
October 13, 2020
I remember Cecil from HRS. I worked with him on the 6th floor. I was the Attorney for HRS District 1. He was a warm and caring person.
Mike Bollette
October 12, 2020
Buddy you were always welcoming to me. Always a nice smile with a warm heart. I only wish I was able to sit and talk with you more. The Bollette family will miss you. Prayers to your family. Say hi to carl for me. Rest easy sir...
Scott Disher
October 12, 2020
So sorry to hear of Mr Laniers passing. He was well respected and a good man. Our sincere condolences. The Disher family
Phil Jacob
October 12, 2020
Cecil was my first supervisor at VR.
He was a great boss and a good friend. He will be greatly missed by all.
John Hoewt
October 12, 2020
One of a kind! Always drew others near with his ready smile & quick wit-never met a stranger. Cecil Lanier will be missed-I was one of his co-workers at “Voc Rehab” in the ‘70’s. May he Rest In Peace.
Buddy Beovich
October 12, 2020
Cecil worked with my Dad and a group of great men for the State of Florida Vocational Rehab Division for many years. I went on many memorable fishing trips with Cecil and my Dad among others and he was one of the men that were very influential to me growing up and treated me so well always. I learned a great deal of how to deal with people watching his personality and demeanor with everyone. He was fun to be around and always was happy and enjoyed what he was doing. He will be dearly missed by his family, co-workers, and those whose lives he touched like myself. Rest well and thank you for all you did for me.
Genodra “Polly” GreenRichardson
October 12, 2020
I will miss Mr Lanier, he was a kind friend and boss. I met him and Marlon Bullock when both of them took a chance on me and gave me my first State job. I will Always Love Him. RIH Mr Lanier, Polly GreenRichardson
Toni Yost
October 12, 2020
One of the best role models around! Always impressed by the love he showed to family and friends. He will be missed by so many.
Tabitha Gelarden
October 12, 2020
Praying for your family! It is never easy to say good-bye.
John and Sandie Criddle
October 12, 2020
We lived next door to the Laniers many years ago. Buddy, as we called him, was such an amazing friend, father and husband. Over the years we stayed in touch and really couldn’t get enough of his wit, his kindness and love for his family. He will be sorely missed by our family. We feel saddened at his passing but we know someday we will see him again. Our thoughts and prayers go to Jackie and the girls through these troubling times.
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2276 Airport Blvd., Pensacola, FL 32504
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