Albert "Buddy" Roy McClanahan

Obituary For Albert "Buddy" Roy McClanahan

Albert Roy McClanahan, lovingly known as “Buddy” to all who knew him, passed away peacefully in his home of 50 years in Bowie, Texas, on January 7, 2026, at the age of 85, surrounded by love and his son.

Buddy was the kind of man who never met a stranger. He was well known for his quick wit, infectious humor, and larger-than-life personality. As many would say, “Buddy could make anyone laugh, and you never walked away from him without a smile.” He was truly a character to everyone he encountered, leaving lasting impressions wherever he went.

Graveside services will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Elmwood Cemetery in Bowie, with Chaplain Phillip Weitner officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 11, at White Family Funeral Home in Bowie, Texas.

Albert was born on October 6, 1940, in Brown County, Texas, to Margie McClanahan and Dorsey McClanahan. He was the youngest of six children and spent his childhood in Plainview, Texas.

In 1964, Buddy met the love of his life, Lucretia Ann McClanahan (“Cree”), and the two were married on February 11, 1966. Their life together was filled with adventure and devotion.

Albert proudly served his country in the United States Army, spending the majority of his service in artillery and serving during the Vietnam War. As a veteran, he took great pride in being a soldier and serving his nation. During his military service, Buddy earned numerous honors and decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Expert Rifle Badge, and seven Good Conduct Awards, a testament to his dedication, discipline, and exemplary service.

During his military career, Buddy and Lucretia traveled extensively, spending time stationed in Germany, Okinawa, and throughout Europe, as well as many locations across the United States. These years created treasured memories, especially for his son, whose fondest memories include traveling through Europe and visiting castles while Buddy was stationed overseas.

Outside of his service, Buddy loved the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and had a deep compassion for rescuing animals, always offering care to those in need. Above all else, Buddy deeply loved his wife and patiently awaited the day they would be reunited.

We know Heaven is celebrating, as Buddy is once again with his beloved Lucretia, who preceded him in death on May 13, 2020.

Buddy is survived by one son; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward his humor, stories, and legacy of love.

Arrangements are entrusted to White Family Funeral Home of Bowie, Texas.