Final Salute

Walter Howard “Bud” Fussell Age: 96, born June 3, 1930, bid a gentle farewell to this world on August 14, 2026. Bud’s life wove together devotion to faith, service, hard work, and home. A steadfast member of Mt. Lebanon Church, Bud found immense joy and deep spiritual nourishment within its welcoming walls. His faith was the touchstone of his daily life, guiding his actions with humility and genuine care for others. Just as willingly, Bud offered his time and generous spirit to the Dickson County Laity Club, nurturing bonds of fellowship and working beside good friends and neighbors for the greater good of his beloved community. Remarkably dedicated, Bud served for many years as the caretaker of Mt. Lebanon Cemetery. In this sacred trust, he tended the resting place of so many friends and kin, working quietly and faithfully to honor those who came before with dignity and respect.

Patriotism and duty called Bud early in life. He answered, enlisting in the United States Navy and proudly serving in the Naval Seabees. Later, he continued to serve his country and found purpose in a long and honorable civilian career, retiring after thirty years with the City of Royal Oak, Michigan. Through decades of public work, his steadfastness and reliability touched countless colleagues and citizens.

Outside his professional endeavors, Bud’s love for the land ran deep. Some of his happiest moments were spent on the Steele Farm, where he enjoyed working hard to help raise tobacco and hogs. The rhythms of the seasons and the honest labor of farming brought him contentment and a lasting sense of connection to the earth and his roots.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Bud remember a man of quiet strength, patient wisdom, and unwavering loyalty. He was known for his warm and friendly nature, with a ready smile and lighthearted joking that brightened the days of family, friends, and neighbors alike. While the record of his years is written in the annals of church meetings, city ledgers, and rural fields, his true legacy lies in the memories he leaves behind—of hard work, faith lived out every day, and hands always ready to help neighbor and friend alike.

As we say goodbye, we remember Walter Howard “Bud” Fussell with gratitude—for a life of integrity, faith, and meaningful service, and for the countless ways he made this world a better place simply by being himself.

Visitation: will be from 12-4 Sunday and 12–2 Monday at the Spann Funeral Home.

Funeral Service: The funeral service for Walter “Bud” Fussell will be conducted Monday, August 17, 2026, from the chapel of Spann Funeral Home with Bro. Tom Heard and Pastor Joyce Lighari officiating.

Interment: Mt. Lebanon Cemetery

Survived by:

Grandson: Jesse Hull (Tina) of Prairie Village, Kansas

Granddaughter: Jennifer Hull of Clawson, Michigan

9 Great Grandchildren: Brayden, Brinley, Geneviève, Ilah, Levi, Evangeline, Briana, Cora, and Kalen

4 Great Grandchildren: Ezra, Riley, Lacey, and Nathan

Preceded By:

Parents: Willis and Ruby Hudson Fussell

Wives: Phyllis Miranda and Martha Allen Fussell

Daughter: Mary Elizabeth Fussell

Grandson: Walter Hull

3 Sisters: Ethal Hill, Beverly Culpepper, Dorothy Kopacz