Hugh Lynn "Buck" Fitzgerald, Jr., 86, passed away unexpectedly on September 4, 2024, in Bradenton, Florida, surrounded by family. He was born on August 22, 1938, in Atlanta, Georgia, to his late parents, Hugh Lynn Fitzgerald, Sr. and Mary Lillian (Minor) Fitzgerald.
"Buck" as everyone knew him, graduated from Roosevelt High School in Atlanta, Class of 1957. Following graduation, he proudly served in the U.S.
Coast Guard on the CGC Storis in Alaska, the CGC Paw-Paw in Charleston, South Carolina and at the Coast Guard Station in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. He met his future wife, Judy, while stationed in New Smyrna Beach where they fell in love and married. They moved to Atlanta and welcomed two children, Michael and Kimberly. Buck found great joy in coaching his son's Little League team, where he shared his love for the game and mentored countless young athletes.
In 1973, they moved to Bradenton, Florida, where they welcomed their third child, Lisa. Buck worked at Cochran Concrete as Vice President in Precast Concrete Structures. He enjoyed his work, but truly lived for his family. Buck was a loving and devoted husband, son, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. He was always ready with a joke, an infectious smile and words of encouragement when it was needed the most. He will be deeply missed and forever loved by his family and those who had the pleasure to know him.
In addition to his parents, Buck was predeceased by his sister, Sandra G. Beaty.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Judy Fitzgerald; son, Michael Fitzgerald of Parrish; two daughters and son-in-law, Kimberly Fitzgerald and Lisa (James) Roberts of Bradenton; two grandchildren, Savannah Fitzgerald and Christian Fitzgerlad; and a nephew, nieces, family and friends, all of whom will miss him dearly.
A Celebration of Life will be held 10 AM to 11 AM, with services to follow on Friday, September 27, 2024, at Brown and Sons Funeral Homes, 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, Florida 34209.
Inurnment with Military Honors will take place 2 PM at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 SR 72, Sarasota, FL 34241. In Lieu of flowers, the family suggests those who wish to remember Buck in a special way may make a donation in his name to Tidwell Hospice (https://tidewellfoundation.org/). Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, Florida 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
