William James “Jake” Buddin III, 70, husband of Elaine Richburg Buddin, passed away Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, at his home, surrounded by the family he cherished and the community he spent a lifetime serving.
Born Feb. 3, 1955, in Sumter, Jake was the eldest son of the late William James Buddin Jr. and Charlene Mae Rooney Buddin. From his earliest years, he developed the tireless work ethic, generosity of spirit, and deep commitment to service that later defined his life in Clarendon County.
Jake co-owned and operated Clarendon Exterminating Company for 46 years, building it into a community mainstay through equal parts hard work and heart. He also owned Buddin Construction Company, where his hands helped shape the homes, businesses, and Main Street buildings that remain part of Manning’s landscape. Balancing his businesses while raising a family, he nevertheless poured thousands of hours into the county he loved.
A lifelong public servant, Jake held roles in nearly every corner of community life. He served as president of the Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce, was a dedicated member of the Rotary Club and Jaycees, and played longtime roles with the Striped Bass Festival Board. In 2012, he was honored as the Chamber Citizen of the Year—recognition that reflected not only his leadership, but also the humility with which he met every request for help.
Jake’s service often happened quietly, without recognition. He stepped up for the Taste of Clarendon, the Striped Bass Festival, local fishing tournaments, Pig Tales Bar-B-Que events, and more charity cookouts than friends could count. He coached children’s sports, helped open the Teen Center, volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, supported church missions, and assisted anyone who needed a hand. Most recently, he played a key role in bringing John’s Place—an addiction recovery resource center—into being, helping create a lifeline for families across the region.
A devoted member of Manning United Methodist Church, Jake served in many roles, including Head Trustee. He was active in the United Methodist Men’s Ministry, participating in fellowship and fundraising efforts that strengthened ministries throughout the year. His faith fueled his service, grounding his belief that giving back was not an obligation, but a calling.
Jake was also known for his warmth at home. He and Elaine, his beloved wife of 43½ years, raised their daughter, Caroline, teaching her the same values of service and kindness that guided their lives. The Buddins opened their home to numerous exchange students through the years, offering support, laughter, and a welcoming place to land—efforts that stretched Jake’s impact across the globe.
Outside of work and service, Jake was an avid hunter, fisherman, barbecue master, and car enthusiast. Friends often joked that he “never met a smoker he couldn’t outwork” or a community project he wouldn't pitch in to help. He was happiest outdoors or surrounded by family, often with a project in hand and a smile that made hard work feel light.
Jake is survived by his wife, Elaine, of Manning; a daughter, Caroline Buddin-delMas (Joshua) of Manning; a bonus daughter, Charlotte Scapin of Paris, France; a brother, Chuck Buddin (Pam) of Manning; two sisters, Pam Currie of Manning and Debbie Mattison (Reid) of Zionsville, Indiana; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
A memorial service was held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, at Manning United Methodist Church with the Rev. David D. McManus Jr. officiating. Visitation took place one hour prior in the church fellowship hall, and the family received visitors at their home on Raccoon Road.
Memorials may be made to Manning United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 68, Manning, SC 29102.
Stephens Funeral Home & Crematory of Manning was in charge of arrangements.
Jake Buddin leaves behind a legacy woven into nearly every corner of Clarendon County. His impact endures not only in the institutions he strengthened, but in the countless lives he lifted along the way. Manning is better because he lived here.
