William Earl (Bud, Buster) Dunbar, 76, of Cloverdale, departed this life in the early morning hours of Tuesday, November 30, 2021 after a long illness.
He transitioned to his heavenly mansion with his beloved Jo Ann, his wife of nearly 60 years, by his bedside. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ottie Dunbar; his brother, Roger Dunbar; and sisters, Marjory “Sis” Huffman and Lucille Sloan.
“Bud” was born in Fincastle, in the midst of the Second World War, in very humble circumstances. His greatest accomplishment was rising up from that beginning, through hard work, grit and a keen mind for numbers, to build a very successful business, W.E. Dunbar Painting & Contracting. He built some of the finest homes in the Roanoke Valley and particularly in Botetourt County. He taught his son Mark the construction business and one of his proudest moments was retiring and turning the reins of the business over to his son.
Bud never forgot his roots, his community or the people he grew up with. He constantly raised money for people in need, hosting bluegrass concerts and other events to help people with hospital bills and living expenses. He often paid the costs for these events and donated all proceeds to the cause of the day. He did all this with no expectations of recognition.
Surviving is his wife, traveling companion and business partner, Jo. The two of them enjoyed traveling the world together, from Australia to Alaska and many points in between. He is also survived by daughters, Tina King (Jeff) and Tracy Kelly (Reed); and son, Mark Dunbar (Liz). Also surviving are grandchildren, Lindsay King, Heather King, Zack Kelly (Brittany), Ashby Dunbar and Ellie Dunbar.
The family received friends Wednesday, December 1, 6 to 8 p.m. at Botetourt Funeral Home, Buchanan Chapel. A celebration of Bud’s life was held at the Buchanan Chapel on Thursday, December 2, at 11a.m. with L.W. Carter officiating. Burial was in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed” – Proverbs 11:25. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation at any local food bank. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfuneralhome.com or 540-254-3000.
