Edward "Bud" Ness

Edward “Bud” Ness passed away on Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at the age of 73.

Bud was born in Jersey City, N.J., on September 16, 1949, the second of the late Ed and Ann Ness’s five children. He was affectionately known by family as “Bud” or “Buddy,” but was known as “Ed” by non-relatives. Well-loved by his family and friends alike, Bud was a wonderful big brother to his younger siblings growing up. He always took time to play with them and wasn’t afraid to be a big kid on a tiny trike going in circles. His brothers and sisters could count on Bud to greet them with a spirited “chip, chip, cheerio!” in a British accent. Armed with the Irish gift of gab he inherited from his mother, he taught his siblings how to be funny (or at least how to appreciate a good quip).

Bud grew up in Livingston, N.J., and graduated from Essex Catholic High School (an all-boys school) in Newark, N.J. He was a good student overall and excelled in history. Bud’s quick memory of current events, geography, science, and math would have made him an exceptional contestant on “Jeopardy!” He went on to attend Rutgers University, where he planned to follow in his father’s footsteps by studying mechanical engineering. As his interests swayed toward political science, Bud changed his major and ended up with a bachelor’s in liberal arts. He was supremely proud of his Rutgers degree. Bud often used self-deprecation as a source of humor, especially when describing his “five-year degree.” His dad always laughed when repeating, “Buddy was a five-year man.”

Upon college graduation, he settled in Warner Robins, Ga., where his parents and siblings resided, and started his career. Bud held several sales and marketing positions before ultimately finding his calling with the Peach County Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) in Fort Valley, Ga. He earned an excellent reputation and proudly served his community for 34 years. Bud’s co-workers loved him, as he brought laughter, common sense, and enjoyment to the job of serving the public. When he retired, his colleagues sent him off with affection and heartfelt tributes. Bud was acknowledged as one of Peach County DFCS’ most valuable and effective employees. His tact and expertise furthered his agency’s mission to provide financial assistance and social services to Georgians in need.

Bud had a great career and was a leader to his family over the decades. In his retirement, he spent years helping his elderly parents in Warner Robins. When his parents moved into assisted living in Roswell, Ga., Bud enjoyed spending more time in metro Atlanta with his other four siblings, nieces, and nephews.

Bud will be fondly remembered as the family humorist who could turn any bad news into a tastefully comical tale. He always took the opportunity to bring a smile and chuckle, no matter the issue. His quick wit and candor could soften any blow, and he taught us all to relax and enjoy life. His family is confident that he’s the life of the party in heaven!

No one could replace Edward F. Ness. Those that knew him know he was a loyal friend and brother to everyone. “God bless you” was often Bud’s heartfelt parting phrase. May God bless this great man. We will miss you.

Those left to cherish his memory are his siblings, Robert Ness and Mary Ann Brooks (John), both of Roswell, GA, Meg Huckeba Shelton (Keith) of Marietta, GA, and Larry Ness (Jennifer) of Alpharetta, GA; nieces and nephews, John Brooks (Cordelia) of Boone, NC, Kelly Brooks (Tucker) of Salt Lake City, UT, Sean Huckeba (Julie) of St. Simons Island, GA, Kevin Ness (Rachel) of Smyrna, GA and Lauren Ness of Atlanta, GA; and great-nieces and nephews, Ferris Brooks, Elizabeth Huckeba, Emerson Ness and Luke Ness.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 3, 2022, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Monsignor Fred Nijem and Deacon Jim Hunt officiating. Bud will be laid to rest in Magnolia Park Cemetery following the service. Visitation with Bud’s family will take place one hour prior to Mass in the Narthex at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the online registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.