Willie D. Laster, Jr., known affectionately by many names—Buddy, Laster, Dad, Deacon, Coach, Granddaddy, and BoBo—peacefully departed this life on August 9, 2024, at the age of 89. Born on February 19, 1935, in Terrell County, Georgia, he was the oldest child of the late Willie D. Laster, Sr. and Amzie Steward Laster. Willie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Virginia Terry Laster; his three brothers, Master Laster, Dave L. Laster, and Horace Laster; his daughter-in-law, Darienne Monique Miller Laster; and his oldest grandchild, Karlos Fontaine Laster. Despite these losses, his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched.

Buddy was lovingly revered by his siblings as "The Boss." Raised in a close-knit family grounded in faith, he attended Sunday School and church regularly at Third Kiokee Baptist Church with his dad and brothers. He committed his life to Christ at an early age and remained an active and dedicated member of his church community throughout his life.

From a young age, Buddy learned the value of hard work, discipline, and determination—traits that defined his journey. He attended the public schools of Dougherty County, graduating from Monroe Comprehensive High School in 1953.

In 1956, Willie found love and partnership with Mary Virginia Terry, the love of his life. Together, they built a family rooted in the love of Christ and the importance of strong family ties. Their union was blessed with five children: Karl, A.D., Cathy, and twins Kenny and Keith. Buddy and Ginger, as they were known, dedicated their lives to instilling the values of faith, love, and family in their children through both words and actions.

Willie's commitment to his faith was evident in his many roles at Third Kiokee Baptist Church. He served as a Sunday School teacher, sharing his deep knowledge and love of the Bible with others, and as the Superintendent of Sunday School, where he guided and nurtured the spiritual growth of the church's youth and adults alike. His dedication to the church was further demonstrated when he was ordained as a deacon in May 1985, a role in which he served alongside his father, Deacon Willie D. Laster, Sr. Together, they exemplified the strength of their faith and the importance of family unity in service to God. Deacon Laster's leadership and wisdom led him to serve several years as Chairman of the Deacon Board, where he continued to provide guidance and support to the congregation.

Though life led him down various paths, Willie's commitment to education never wavered. Over 25 years after he first began his studies, Willie returned to Albany State College, demonstrating his perseverance and dedication, and graduated in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education. Shortly after returning to complete his degree, Willie began working part-time in the athletics department at Albany State University. This part-time role blossomed into a 22-year career of distinguished service within the Albany State University Department of Athletics.

In 2005, Willie retired at age 70. Under Coach Laster's leadership, the Albany State University athletics program achieved remarkable success. He led the Women's Cross Country team to four Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Championships in 1998, 1999, 2004, and 2005. His Men's Track & Field teams claimed three SIAC Championships in 2003, 2004, and 2005. Additionally, the Women's Track & Field team captured five SIAC Championships under his guidance in 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2005. His teams also earned ten National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Championships, a testament to his exceptional coaching and leadership abilities. Willie's impact on his athletes and the university community was profound, and his legacy in the world of collegiate athletics will endure.
Following his retirement, Willie enjoyed his leisure time on the golf course, spending time with family, sitting on his front porch, or in his favorite chair watching TV while playing Solitaire.

Willie's life was marked by his quiet, reserved nature and his unwavering faith. Known for his quick wit and even temperament, he trusted God in all things and lived the love of Christ through his actions. He was the epitome of a great man.

Willie D. Laster, Jr. lived a life that truly exemplified greatness. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, a dedicated servant of the Lord, and a pillar of his community. His legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. Willie's presence will be sorely missed, but his impact will be felt for generations to come.

He leaves behind a loving family to cherish his legacy: his children, Karl D. Laster (Mary), A.D. Laster (Wanda), Cathy Laster Albritton, Kenny Laster (Carol), and Keith Laster (Charlene); his siblings, David L. Laster, Marian L. Oliver (Johnny), Mildred L. Williams (Arthur), and Claretha L. Thomas (Stanley), all of Albany; his sister-in-law, Carrie W. Laster; his grandchildren, Janelle (Darrell), Porsche (Lewis), Konstance, Monique, Keith II (Quinlandrea), Adrian (Olivia), Aaron, Christine, Alexx, Christopher, Nicholas; great-grandchildren, Jayla, Jayden, Kalieb, Sophie Rose, Logan, Kaiyon, and Nyzir; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

His memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. Willie's presence will be sorely missed, but his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched. Those who knew and loved him will carry forward the example he set—a life lived with grace, faith, and an unwavering commitment to the things that truly matter.