Walter Perry Hand

Walter Perry Hand, affectionately known as Buddy, was born on April 9, 1947, in Philadelphia, Mississippi, to the late Perry E. Hand and Claudine (Johnson) Hand. Buddy passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Buddy's early years were spent in Memphis, Tennessee, where he completed his education, graduating from Messick High School. He served his country honorably in the United States Army from February 7, 1966 until January 29, 1969. Buddy completed two tours of duty during the Vietnam War. While in the service, Buddy received the following awards: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Medal, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. Following his time in the military, Buddy went to the police academy and later served as a police officer in Memphis, demonstrating a commitment to public service that he carried throughout his life.

His academic journey took him to the University of Arkansas, where he intertwined his life with Patricia, the love of his life. They became college sweethearts and were united in marriage on March 23, 1991 at Faith Baptist Church in Summersville, Missouri. Buddy later continued his education at Troy State University at Kings Bay Naval Base, earning both a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Education.

Throughout their life together, Buddy and Pat called various places home, ultimately retiring to the charming town of Tunas, Missouri, just outside of the Lake of the Ozarks. This serene setting allowed Buddy to indulge in one of his true passions: bass fishing, where he enjoyed countless days on the water with friends.

Beyond his love for fishing, Buddy was a devoted Christian. He actively participated in several churches including DeSoto Freewill Baptist, Hopewell Freewill Baptist, and finally, Leadington Freewill Baptist Church. His faith was an integral part of his life, as evidenced by his dedication as a Sunday School teacher and church bus driver. He cherished reading the Bible and enjoyed spending quality time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Buddy leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory, including his devoted wife of nearly 34 years, Patricia Hand; his son, Justin Hand, and his wife, Shelley. Additionally, Buddy is survived by his four bonus daughters: Debbie Davis and her husband, Steve; Dianne Pitts; Della Sinclair; and Darla "Baby Girl" Parish and her husband, Walt. He was a proud pawpaw to ten grandchildren: Noah Hand; Scott (Ely) Parish; Kyle (Phoebe) Davis; Kurtis (Kayleigh) Davis; Shannon (Brian) Clark; Chase (Stephanie) Sinclair; Kaylyn Johnson; Lauren (Jonathan) Hays; Hailey Parish; and Mallory Parish; and great grandpa to seventeen great-grandchildren: Sophie; Amélie; Julian; Will; Claira; Owen; Lydia; Paxton; Alexis; Leeland; Karleigh; Karter; Hagan; Ripley; Kira; Kacye; Jensen; and Lyra. Buddy is also survived by his sister, Dale Burns, and her husband, Jim; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Mary Shipley, Connie Jones and husband Squirt, and Chloe Pitts; along with nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends whose lives he touched.

In addition to his grandparents, Buddy was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Shaun Sinclair; his brother, Glen Hand; four sisters-in-law: Rosa Collins, Yvonne Bradford, Bee Pitts, and Jerry Miller. 

Buddy will be fondly remembered as a dedicated family man, a committed public servant, and a steadfast friend. His legacy of love and compassion will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.

Friends are welcome to join Buddy's family for a time of visitation at Leadington Freewill Baptist Church, 218 Woodlawn Drive, Park Hills, MO 63601 on Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 1:00 PM until the time of his Funeral Service at 2 PM. Buddy's grandson, Kyle Davis will be officiating. Pastors Bob Thebeau and Tony Butcher will be assisting. Additionally, Buddy will receive full military honors. 

Funeral arrangements for Buddy were under the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.