Lyman Earl Sapp, Iii

Lyman Earl “Buddy” Sapp III, passed away on June 19, 2025, at home in Clay City with family at his side after a battle with cancer. He was 67.

Born April 27, 1958, in Port Arthur, Texas, he was the son of Barbara (McBride) and Lyman Earl “Curly” Sapp Jr. They preceded him in death, along with his sisters Brenda, Sherry, Melanie, and Vickie.

Buddy graduated from Flora High School in 1976. He was proud to work the majority of his career as a truck driver, starting as a long haul over-the-road driver hauling various types of freight—from traditional truckloads to refrigerated loads and flatbeds. Later in his career he drove locally, hauling dump bed and anhydrous trailers for the agricultural community and eventually becoming a dispatcher.

Buddy was known as an entertaining storyteller who always had a joke at the ready. He enjoyed spending time with his dogs and cherished his many friends. He loved working in his garage and collecting old signs and antique tins. In younger years he was heavily involved in go-kart racing, both as a participant and spectator. He also enjoyed slot car racing, building model semi-trucks, riding motorcycles, and going out for a night on the town.

Most of all, he was fascinated with mechanical repair, building up a wealth of knowledge which eventually led him to open Shady Deals, his small engine and lawn mower repair business.

He leaves behind sons Jason (April) Evans of Mount Juliet, TN, Josh Sullens of Clay City, daughter Jennifer (Ken) Beach of Avon, OH, and grandchildren Bailey (Robby) Evans-Hunter, Anthony Banks, Daniel Evans, and Holly Banks.

Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home in Olney has been entrusted with arrangements.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and a private service will be held at a future date.

Memorials may be made to the Clay County Animal Rescue and Shelter at P.O. Box 623, Flora, IL, 62839.