Buddy "Bud" Early, Sr.

Buddy “Bud” Early, Sr of Waynesville passed away at his home on February 19, 2025. A native and lifelong resident of Haywood County, NC, he attended Waynesville Township High School, Haywood Tech and was an Army Veteran serving in Vietnam. He retired from Dayco and found continued success selling Townecraft cookware among many other jobs throughout his lifetime. 

Bud was a social butterfly traveling much of Western NC to yard sales, flea markets, Hardees and Clyde’s where he never met a stranger. He spent many hours of the week in his workshop, building or refurbishing furniture, much of which he gave away. 

His most cherished achievement was his three sons. Every time he spoke to any of the three, he told them how proud he was and how much he loved them. He was a dad who provided tough love, saying “do as I say, not as I do” and insisted they do better than him. He never missed a game or practice and coached at least one of the boys during any given sports season throughout their athletic careers. He was a huge supporter and volunteer for Waynesville Youth Sports and Tuscola High School Athletics spanning nearly two decades. Bud’s love and commitment for his sons yielded outstanding results as each were extremely successful in their careers and life. You could not have a conversation with Bud without him bragging at length on each one of them. 

His love for his family carried over to his daughters-in-laws and his grandchildren. He never smiled bigger when he saw or talked to them and cherished every moment he got to spend having them around. He kept all their trinkets, cards and photos on full display for all to see. He was so proud and loved all his family. 

Bud was a wonderful man, “Dad” and “Papaw” and is survived by his son’s Buddy Jr., Scott and James “J.J.”; daughters-in-law’s, Brenda, Stephanie, and Christine; his grandchildren, Joshua, Madison, Cain, Ethan, Sydney and Sierra. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Troy Joseph Early and Ruby Moore Birchfield and his siblings Leon Early, Jesse Early Clark, Betty Sue Early Smith. 

“Dad”, “Papaw” we are so proud of you and love you very much, you will be missed more than you will ever know. 

The family will hold a private family celebration of life at a date to be determined in the future. 

The care of Mr. Early has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville