It is with heartfelt sadness that the family announces the passing of a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, Louis G. “Buddy” Chatagnier, Jr., an 84-year-old proud United States Air Force veteran whose life was defined by service, passion, and an unwavering competitive spirit.

Services were held on Monday, December 15, 2025 at 12 pm at the church with Bishop Anthony Mangun and Pastor Gentry Mangun. Interment will be at Greenwood Cemetery following the services.

A dedicated airman in his younger years, he carried immense pride in his military service and the values it instilled in him-discipline, loyalty, and honor. These qualities followed him throughout his life and shaped the man so many came to admire.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, he found joy in anything athletic, but golf held a special place in his heart. Whether on the course with friends or watching tournaments on TV, he cherished every moment tied to the game. His competitive nature extended beyond the green-he was a formidable force on the racquetball court, where he loved nothing more than outplaying the younger guys and proving that age was no match for skill and determination.

His love for athletics didn’t stop there. A talented and respected boxer in his younger days, he earned the distinguished honor of being inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame, a testament to his grit, discipline, and devotion to the sport. He was also a bus route captain in Beaumont, Tx at New Life Tabernacle for 25 years and was also the bus route captain for 20 years at The Pentecostals of Alexandria.

Outside of athletics, he nurtured hobbies that reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and history. He enjoyed collecting knives and old coins, each piece treasured and carefully chosen, each carrying a story he delighted in sharing.

Above all, he will be remembered for his humor, his generous heart, his competitive spark, and the deep love he held for his family and friends. His presence filled every room he entered, and his absence will be felt by all who were blessed to know him.

He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Louis G. Chatagnier Sr. and Thelma Chatagnier and brother, Gregory Chatagnier.

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 56 years, despite the odds against them, Gloria; his son, Brandon (Nicole); grandchildren, Magan, Haley, Alyssa, Patience, Addy, Colby, and Collins; brothers, Kenneth (Angie) and Keith (Janet); sisters, Lynn Brown, Jana Chatagnier, and Dana Altazin (Keith); along with a host of nieces and nephews. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, passion, and cherished memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Special thanks to the VA staff for the last 10+ years of exemplary service to Buddy. Also, thanks to the Hilltop staff: Dusty, Santana, Amiracle, Janet, Nurses Todd and Mykala, and our other bus route kids.
May he rest in peace, forever honored and forever missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Revi Recovery Center.