Kenneth "Buddy" Girtley

Kenneth Girtley, affectionately known as “Buddy” to his family and friends, departed this life on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in Jefferson, Louisiana. He was born on September 26, 1949, in New Orleans, Louisiana. “Buddy” was preceded in death by his father, Leroy Jesse Girtley Sr., and his mother, Selena Consee Girtley. He was a lifelong resident of the Shrewsbury area of Metairie and Jefferson, Louisiana. Throughout his life he was a loving husband, son, father, devoted brother, uncle, proud grandfather, and a cherished friend to many, and shared a long-term companionship with Nora London and her family. “Buddy” was a proud 1969 graduate of John H. Martyn High School in Jefferson, Louisiana, he began his career shortly after graduating high school with the Department of Public Works. He worked as a heavy equipment operator for 30 years, retiring in 2000. “Buddy” enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved spending time on his boat, fishing with Michael LeBlanc, listening to music, grilling and boiling seafood, cruising the highway, attending car shows, watching sports, and relaxing in his garage. In his earlier years, he especially enjoyed traveling across the southern states to attend “Cruising’ the Coast” car shows. He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Eve Girtley Luke (Fred), Shela Sterling, Kenneth “Peewee” Rivers (Courtney), and Keniethra Jackson. He was the proud grandfather of Ashley, Jasmine, Everett, Cory, Regina, Christopher, Kenzariya, Korneciya, Andrew, Bria, and Logann; and great-grandfather of Zaron, Marshawn, Eyvah, Tori, Isaac, Nolan, and Ai’Zen. He is also survived by his siblings: Catherine Garcia, Claudia Ann Martin, Dian Girtley Kent, Leroy Jesse Girtley Jr. (Patricia), and Lillie Mae Fortune (Michael); and was preceded in death by his brother, Eric Girtley. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. “Buddy” is already deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Marine & Mt. Moriah Community Church, 3034 Andover Street, Jefferson, Louisiana 70121. Service will begin at 10:00am Visitation will begin at 8:30 am. Internment: Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Terrytown, LA. Arrangements by D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Avenue. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the guestbook and share condolence with the family.