Mr. Elmer H. (Buddy) Todd, Jr's Obituary
Elmer H. (Buddy) Todd, Jr. passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, February 20, 2016. He was born on February 26, 1930, in Chicago, IL, to the late Elmer H. and Stella Mae Todd, but was raised in East Nashville from childhood. He is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Imelda Wehby Todd, his sister Peg Todd Marshall, seven children: Edward (Deborah), John, Andrew (Tanya), Mary Ann, Daniel (Julie), Robert, and Richard (Teresa); nine grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren with another due soon. He is predeceased by grandson Benjamin David Todd.
Buddy graduated from East High School in 1947 and was voted Best All-Around by his classmates. He then served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 6 years choosing to re-enlist after his first tour was complete to serve as a Staff Sergeant during the Korean conflict, spending 13 months combat duty there.
He returned home to attend Vanderbilt University School of Electrical Engineering on the G.I. Bill and graduated in 1956. He then went to work for the Tennessee Valley Authority as a Test Engineer and held the position until 1984. He also owned and operated a Zenith T.V. Sales and Service shop. During his working career at TVA, he spent time at various substations and power plants across the Valley where he developed long-lasting friendships. His expertise solving electrical issues was matched only by his unique story-telling skills that people still remember him for many years later.
After retiring from TVA, he returned to work for United Energy Services Corp. of America, where he was a consultant at nuclear facilities around the Eastern United States. After permanently retiring, he enjoyed many outdoor activities, most notably his annual garden which provided a bountiful supply of vegetables, especially tomatoes, for family and friends alike. He supported his beloved Vanderbilt Commodores sports teams through good times and bad times.
A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, February 25, 2016, 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Interment will follow in Spring Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday 3:00-7:00 p.m. at Spring Hill Funeral Home and Thursday 10:00-11:00 a.m. at St.Joseph Catholic Church. Arrangements entrusted to Spring Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5110 Gallatin Road, Nashville, TN 37216, 615-865-1101, www.springhillfh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Elmer H.?
What’s a lesson you learned from Elmer H.?
Share a story where Elmer H.'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Elmer H. you’ll never forget.
How did Elmer H. make you smile?