WILMINGTON — Elmore “Buddy” Bloodworth, Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather (Papa), and friend, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2025, in Wilmington, NC at Novant Health/New Hanover Regional Medical Center at the age of 68. Born on October 21, 1956, in Burgaw, NC to the late Elmore “Lil Babe” Bloodworth, Sr. and Frances Bloodworth, Elmore lived a life full of hard work, dedication, and love for his family.
A graduate of Penderlea School in Pender County, Elmore married the love of his life, Pamela, in 1977. Their nearly 49-year marriage was marked by devotion, partnership, and lasting love. Together, they built a beautiful family that became the cornerstone of Elmore’s world.
Elmore’s career began as a truck driver, where he navigated the local roads and eventually ventured across the country. His passion for vehicles didn’t stop at driving; he possessed an incredible knack for fixing cars and diesel trucks. Elmore could identify the make and model of a car just by its sound, a skill born from high school auto mechanic classes taught by his favorite teacher and mentor Nathan Wells, and honed over years of curiosity and practice. This expertise laid the foundation for his venture into selling used cars, eventually leading to owning his own used car business. Later in life, Elmore enjoyed driving a taxi in Wilmington, where he shared his warmth and stories with countless passengers.
Elmore was a man of faith and found community at The River at Wrightsville Avenue Church of God. His faith was a guiding light throughout his life, shaping him into the selfless, generous soul who would do anything to help those around him. As the protector and rock of his family, Elmore was always there with open arms and sage advice.
Family was Elmore’s pride and joy. He reveled in spending time with each and every one of them. One of his grandchildren’s cherished memories was Elmore, who they affectionately called Papa, helping him catch his first fish at a young age. He held a special place in his heart for his great-granddaughter, Lilly, whose presence brought him immense happiness.
Preceded in death by his parents, Elmore “Lil Babe” Bloodworth, Sr. and Frances Bloodworth, and his brother Eddie Bloodworth, Elmore is survived by his devoted wife, Pamela Baker Bloodworth; his beloved sons, Scot and Nicholas Bloodworth; his cherished grandchildren, Katelyn Bloodworth, Samantha Milia, and Alex Bloodworth; his adored great-granddaughter, Lilly Bloodworth; his brother, Danny Bloodworth; his sister, Elizabeth Jo Lanier and her husband Wayne; his sister-in-law, Mary Bloodworth; Pamela’s family who fully embraced Elmore as one of their own for nearly five decades; many nieces, nephews, and extended family members and friends who loved him dearly and will miss him immensely.
Services for Elmore will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at The River at Wrightsville Avenue Church of God. The family will receive visitors is from 2:00pm to 3:00pm, immediately followed by a Memorial Service at 3:00pm.
Elmore’s legacy is one of hard work, unwavering faith, and a profound commitment to family. He leaves behind a tapestry of memories woven with laughter, kindness, and the quiet strength that defined his life. Though deeply missed, Elmore’s spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who knew him.
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