Zeb “Buddy” Vance Rader, Jr.

Zeb Vance “Buddy” Rader, Jr., 86, of Newton, North Carolina, passed away on Sunday, October 5, surrounded by his loved ones after a courageous battle with cancer.

Buddy was born on June 14, 1939, in Catawba County to the late Zeb and Earline Rader. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Alice Rader, his sisters, Patty Burris and Brenda Detter, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Carl “Pete” Rader, in 2021.

After graduating from Fred T. Foard High School, Buddy joined the U.S. Army and served for a total of 20 years in the National Guard and Army Reserves. However, he discovered his true calling after taking courses in interior design at Catawba Valley Community College.

During his long and fulfilling career as a designer, Buddy used his artistic creativity and keen attention to detail to decorate private homes, wedding venues, furniture showrooms (including the prestigious High Point Market), and more. His work reflected who he was: warm, stylish, and full of life. His talent took him across the country, from the Carolinas to California. He loved to share stories about the experiences he had along the way—especially when good food and a cold Arnold Palmer were involved. In recent years, Buddy particularly enjoyed collaborating with local clients to create festive Christmas décor.

Buddy’s eye for design extended beyond his professional work to his personal style. Whether at a backyard barbecue or a Sunday church service, he was always impeccably dressed and often put a dapper personal twist on classic styles.

Throughout his life, Buddy was surrounded by a wide circle of friends—a reflection of his generous spirit, charismatic personality, and natural gift for connection. He never waited for an introduction. Instead, he was curious, quick to smile, and eager to strike up a conversation. He especially treasured the friendships he made through the Catawba Valley Community Chorus, where he was able to share his love of music.

Buddy will be laid to rest with his parents at St. Paul’s Memorial Park in a private ceremony. A Celebration of Life will be planned, with details to follow at the website of Jenkins Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Buddy’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Please sign the online guestbook on the Memorial Wall at www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net. The Rader family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Newton 828-464-1555.