Suthy “Buddy” Wayne Rhue, 79, of New Bern, North Carolina, passed away at his home on Thursday, July 23, 2026.

A funeral service to honor Buddy’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, August 5th at Munden Funeral Home, officiated by Rev. Richard Patterson. Interment will follow at Carteret Memorial Garden. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Buddy was born on August 20, 1946, in Morehead City, NC, to the late Ira Thomas Rhue and Eloise Jarman Rhue. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, a service he carried with pride throughout his life.

Buddy had a deep appreciation for antiques and anything with a story. His love for timeless treasures inspired him to open an antique store in James City, where he enjoyed sharing his passion with others. He was always on the lookout for a special find and was well known for “dumpster diving,” often discovering hidden treasures where others might not think to look. Buddy was a collector of all things.

A talented cook, Buddy loved preparing hearty Southern meals for those he loved. His fried chicken was known to be the best around, and his delicious rutabagas were always a favorite. When it came time for a snack, he could often be found enjoying one of his favorite Little Debbie treats.

Buddy truly improved with age. With each passing year, his character, wisdom, and one-of-a-kind spirit only became more appreciated by those who knew and loved him. Buddy had numerous friends who were more of an extended family. No matter the distance of his children, grandchildren, family and friends, he loved them all dearly.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his daughters, Wendy Kelso (Aaron), of Buena Vista, CO and Tammy Skinner of Wessington, SD; sons, Timothy Rhue (Brennan) of Afton, WI and Jason Rhue of Colorado Springs, CO; brother, Alvin Thomas Rhue (Sandy) of Beaufort, NC; 16 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Buddy was preceded in death by his son, Patrick Nathaniel Rhue and brothers, Albert Lee Rhue and Doy Ray Rhue.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Boys & Girls Clubs of the Coastal Plain, 3321 Bridges St, Morehead City, NC 28557.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.