It is with deep sorrow we must share with you that after some recent health struggles, Bud Sears passed away last week.

Bud was a well-loved part of the Kirby-Smith family and had several close friends in the Oklahoma City office and throughout our territory. His presence will be dearly missed.

As an employee, Bud was passionate about his job and truly cared for Kirby-Smith Machinery and its people. Though he often hid it behind a gruff persona, anyone who knew Bud realized how big a heart he had for others. Bud was always upbeat and quick to find fun, one time showing up to the office in his Halloween costume and proceeding to work all day in character. While Bud knew how to have fun, he was remarkably serious and diligent in his work. A great mentor to many, he constantly looked for opportunities to share his expertise and vast experience. In both his time at the parts counter and as a PSSR, Bud was exemplary of the service Kirby-Smith Machinery strives to provide, always finding new ways to be a resource to customers and make their lives easier. Bud believed in doing the right thing for his customers because he knew, without them, “there would be no Kirby-Smith Machinery.” His fellow PSSRs have described him as “The definition of Product Support, Bud was a wealth of knowledge with the willingness to help anyone.”

As we mourn the loss of our friend and colleague, we must also reflect on the fortune we had that Bud Sears was a part of the Kirby-Smith family for nearly 26 years – time that he filled with heart, effort, friendship and wonderful memories.

In keeping with Bud’s own wishes, we have been informed that there will be no memorial service. One small way Kirby-Smith Machinery has chosen to remember Bud is with a commemorative plaque honoring his life and service to our company, which will be located in the Oklahoma City office.

Please keep Diana and his family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this difficult time.  Per Diana, donations in honor of Bud’s life can be made to St Jude OKC Research Hospital. 

Thank you,
 

H.E. Kirby, Jr.

President

Kirby-Smith Machinery, Inc.