Roderick Eldridge King's Obituary
Memorial Service for Mr. Roderick Eldridge "Buck" King, 84, of Alexander City, will be Monday, April 1, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the First Baptist Church. Dr. Steve King will officiate. An inurnment service for the family will follow at Marble City Cemetery in Sylacauga. The family will receive friends on Monday, April 1, 2024 from 12:30 pm to 1:45 pm at First Baptist Church.
Roderick Eldridge "Buck" King, age 84, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully at his home on March 28, 2024, in Alexander City, Alabama. Born on May 7, 1939, in Bessemer, Alabama, Buck was a man whose life was marked by devotion to his family, his community, and his faith.
Buck spent his professional years as a dedicated insurance agent, where his personable nature and integrity won him the respect and trust of many. His commitment to community service was evident in his role as Past President of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. Buck was also a driving force in the establishment of the Lake Martin Area United Way, further solidifying his legacy of community involvement. His passion for service was recognized nationally when he was selected to carry the Olympic torch in 1996, a moment of pride not just for him but for all who knew him.
Outside of his professional and community commitments, Buck was a man with a zest for life and an array of interests. He was an avid water skier, often seen on the waters of Lake Martin, where he also loved to teach others the joy of the sport. His love for golf was matched only by his dedication as an Auburn fan, and he could be found cheering on his team with the same enthusiasm he approached all his passions. An advocate for physical fitness, Buck completed numerous marathons, his determination and discipline serving as an inspiration to many.
A gifted storyteller, Buck often regaled friends and family with the "Adventures of Paint and Blue," captivating his listeners with his warmth and wit. His stories were not just tales but lessons wrapped in humor and love. A faithful and loving husband for 62 years, Buck's devotion to his wife, Barbara Jane King, was the cornerstone of their shared life in Alexander City.
Buck's faith was a guiding light throughout his life. He was a longtime and active member of the First Baptist Church in Alexander City. He and Mrs. Jane lovingly served in the 4 and 5-year-old Sunday School class for more than 30 years, nurturing the faith of young children with a gentle hand and a kind heart. He was also a faithful member of the Gideons International, where he contributed to spreading faith and hope through the distribution of Bibles.
His love for his family was immense, and he embraced the role of a doting grandfather with gusto. Buck never missed an opportunity to support his grandchildren in their endeavors, traveling far and wide to be present in their lives. His legacy lives on through his beloved wife, Barbara Jane Dark King; his daughter, Stacey Dickson (Steve); his son, Dr. Steve King (Donna); his grandchildren, Chase Dickson (Emilee), Dr. Chance Dickson, Kylie Osborn (Alex), Hannah Christian Canfield (Jackson), and Elizabeth Katherine King; great-grandchildren, Magnolia Dickson and Lorianna Dickson; and his brother, George King, Sr (Sandra).
Preceding him in death were his father, Edward King; his mother, Evelyn Adams King; his sister, Faye King Zellner (Bud); and his brother, Ed King.
Gentle, loving, and faith-filled are words that best describe Buck. He lived his life with a quiet strength and unwavering commitment to the values he held dear. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him, but his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. Buck King's life was a testament to the power of love, service, and faith, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his generous spirit.
Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be given to First Baptist Church, PO Box 400, Alexander City, AL 35011.
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