Harmon "Buddy" Jerriel Deal, Jr.

Harmon "Buddy" Jerriel Deal, Jr., age 59, passed away on June 3, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, mentorship, and friendship that will be cherished for generations.

Born on February 21, 1967, Buddy was a devoted husband to the love of his life, Carol, a proud father and grandfather known affectionately as "PaPa," a beloved son, and a proud veteran. Throughout his life, he was known for his generous heart, unwavering dedication to others, and larger-than-life personality.

Buddy graduated from Northside High School in Warner Robins, Georgia, before proudly serving his country in the United States military from 1985 until 1989. Following his military service, he worked for Pittsburgh Paint & Glass in Perry, Georgia, and later in Columbus, Ohio. In 2003, Buddy followed his entrepreneurial spirit and founded his own Irrigation, Fence, and Landscaping business. Through hard work and determination, he built a successful business and eventually retired in 2021. He and Carol then made their home in Statesboro, Georgia, where they enjoyed the next chapter of their lives together.

While Buddy found success in business, his greatest impact was made on the ballfields and in the lives of countless young athletes. He dedicated many years as a community coach at Veterans High School, Warner Robins High School, and Statesboro High School. He also served as a longtime coach and assistant coach with Warner Robins American Little League, becoming a respected mentor and role model to generations of players.

Buddy was associated with many successful teams throughout his coaching career, including the celebrated 2011 Warner Robins American Little League team that advanced to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Yet, for Buddy, coaching was never about championships or trophies. It was about the players. He believed in teaching life lessons, building confidence, encouraging hard work, sharing laughter, and helping young people become more than they ever thought possible.

Whether on the baseball field or in everyday life, Buddy brought wisdom, humor, and an infectious enthusiasm that made everyone around him feel valued. His influence extended far beyond the game. The lessons he taught, the friendships he cultivated, and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of the players, families, friends, and communities he touched.

Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in knowing that Buddy's legacy lives on through the countless lives he impacted. He will forever be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, proud PaPa, respected coach, faithful friend, and a man whose life truly made a difference.

Buddy was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ira Deal, Nellie Deal, Marion McGraw, and Betty Sue McGraw; aunt, Donna Deal; and brother-in-law, Robert Rockwell.

His memory will forever be treasured by his beloved wife, Carol Deal of Statesboro, Georgia; children, Nicole Lane (David) of Warner Robins, Georgia, Amanda Tapia (Brandon) of Rosomand, California, Harmon “Brody” Jerriel Deal, III (Demitria) of Menifee, California, Gilbert Deal (Patricia) of Bakersville, California, and Ashley Deal of Alpharetta, Georgia; grandchildren, Brady, Alex, Kayleigh, Bailey, Adrian, Bexley, Remidy, Emmett, Nalia, Liam Ike, Calliope, and Madison; parents, Harmon Jerriel Deal, Sr., Darlene Sheck (Mike); and siblings, Cassandra McGalliard (Dennis),Cindy Deal, and Keith Deal (Nicole)

At the request of the family, all services will be private.

The family will accept flowers or donations may be given in memory of Buddy Deal to Warner Robins American Little League.

McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.