Long-time resident of Martha’s Vineyard Adelburt E. “Buddy” Thurber Jr. died on August 24, 2011, after a sudden recurrence of cancer. He was 68.
Born and raised here, he attended Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School when it first opened, then worked with Roger W. Engley, constructing and repairing homes all over the Island. He later became self-employed as a caretaker and repairman of all things for various families in the Lambert’s Cove and Chappaquonsett area, working for more than 50 years for the same families — now at the 3rd generation.
Bud was an avid gardener, raising both vegetables and flowers. He was a member of the M.V. Agricultural Society. Because of his illness, this was the first time in over 55 years he was unable to attend the Fair.
Bud enjoyed fishing and clamming when he could. He also loved talking on his CB and made many connections with people all over the country. He owned many German shepherds and enjoyed training each one of them.
He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Susan S. Thurber, his son, Christopher Thurber, and his wife, Amy, of Vineyard Haven, and Samantha Thurber, his granddaughter/daughter of Oak Bluffs and the Cape. He is also survived by his mother and step-father, Leona and Lester White, their son Antone L. White, also of Oak Bluffs, his uncle, Elisha Smith of Vineyard Haven, and by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins on the Vineyard.
Bud was predeceased by his father Adelburt Thurber Sr. and his beloved sister Ellie Eglinas.
He was the BEST husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, nephew, brother-in-law, and friend anyone could have ever asked for.
A graveside service was held on Tuesday, August 30, at 11 am at the Smith Family Cemetery on Barnes Road, Oak Bluffs. Donations in Bud’s name may be made to Hospice.
