William Busby

William “Buzz” Busby III, May 27, 1956 – December 9, 2025William “Buzz” Hiram Busby III, age 69, entered eternal rest on December 9, 2025. Buzz was born on May 27, 1956, in Selma, Alabama, to William “Billy” Busby and Janet Copeland Godsy. Buzz proudly served his country in the United States Navy, completing his tour of duty in Pensacola, Florida. After his military service, he made Gulf Breeze his home where he met the love of his life, Lisa Jewell Fortenberry. Buzz was truly a man of gold. He never met a stranger and was always ready to lend a helping hand. He loved life on Pensacola Beach, spending weekends on the water with friends and family, and savoring the simple joys of life. His philosophy was that life was too short not to enjoy every moment and moments spent with family and friends were many. He is survived by his son, Will Busby of Gulf Breeze, FL; sisters Babs (Lee) Bender of Selma, AL and Mitzi (Brook) Rollins of Summerdale, AL; stepfather Howard Godsy; mother-in-law Mavis Fortenberry of Silver Creek, MS; sister-in-law Nancy (Mike) Gatewood of Hattisburg, MS ; brother-in-law Duane (Timmy) Fortenberry of Florence, MS ; and a host of nieces and nephews who all hold a special place in his heart. Buzz was preceded in death by his beloved wife Lisa Fortenberry Busby, his parents, William “Billy” Busby and Janet Copeland Godsy; his sister, Shana Busby Cole; and his infant daughter, Breanna Busby. Buzz could tackle any challenge with skill and patience and enjoyed helping others. He was known for his ability to fix anything. If he couldn’t fix it, he could rig-it. Buzz will be remembered as a kind and gentle soul who loved people and sharing the simple things in life which the Lord provided. He enjoyed time spent with friends on the water and enjoying the place which he called Paradise on earth – Pensacola Beach. His legacy of kindness, laughter, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. A celebration of life will be held at Paradise Grill Pensacola Beach on Friday, December 19, 2025 from 5-7:30 PM. A family burial will take place in Silver Creek, MS at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Buzz’s church on the beach, Central Pensacola Beach, 913 Gulf Breeze Parkway Unit 37 Gulf Breeze, FL 32561. https://pushpay.com/g/centralpensacola