Howard F. “Buddy” McWilliams III

Howard F. “Buddy” McWilliams III, age 76, of Texarkana, Texas, formerly of Atlanta, went to be with the Lord Saturday, May 16, 2026, at his residence surrounded by his family. Buddy was born April 18, 1950, in Atlanta, Texas, to Floyd and Juanita Frost McWilliams. He spent nearly 30 years as co-owner and operator of McWilliams Oil Company alongside his father Floyd, before retiring from Golden Star Tire, where he continued his legacy of building lasting friendships and meaningful relationships. Buddy served in the Army National Guard during the Vietnam era; was an ordained minister; and a member of First Baptist Church, Moores Lane where he served as a deacon for many years. Buddy was a Sunday school teacher for over 30 years at West Side Baptist Church and at First Baptist Church, Moores Lane. He served in his community as a member of Gideons International and the Kiwanis Club. He was a friend to all and truly never met a stranger. His kindness, laughter, and easy smile made everyone feel welcome, and he leaves behind countless lives made better simply by knowing him. Buddy enjoyed playing golf with family and friends, especially his children and grandchildren. and was an avid bowler in his younger years. He was preceded in death by his parents.

April 18, 1950 ~ May 16, 2026

Buddy is survived by his wife of 25 years, Sherry McWilliams of Texarkana, Texas; children, Katie Martin (Jeff) of Linden, Texas, Josh McWilliams (Claire) of Texarkana, Texas, Nate McWilliams (Brooke) of Linden, Texas, Timothy McWilliams of Linden, Texas, Jeff Johnson of Plano, Texas; sisters, Linda Dawson of Holly Lake Ranch, Texas, Kay Collins of Plano, Texas; grandchildren, Cayden McWilliams, Luke Martin, Gracie McWilliams, Kole Martin, Hudson McWilliams, Wright McWilliams; special nephew, Rob McWilliams; and a number of other relatives and a host of friends. Visitation will be Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 2 pm to 3 pm at Hanner Funeral Service. Funeral services will be 3:00 pm, Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Hanner Funeral Service with Bro. Bryan Bixler officiating. Interment will be in Pine Crest Cemetery. Those wishing to memorialize Buddy may make contributions to From His Heart Ministries, P. O. Box 7267, Texarkana, Texas 75505 or at www.fromhisheart.org Guest registry is available at www.hannerfuneralservice. com