Raymond "Buddy" Earl Pilkington, 86, passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at the SECU Hospice House in Smithfield. Born January 15, 1940, he was the son of the late Raymon and Pauline Capps Pilkington. In addition to his parents, Buddy is preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Jean Pilkington; sisters, Barbara Anderson and Joy Wilson (Earl); and granddaughter, Heather Medlin.

Buddy was the former co-owner and the beloved retired "Granddaddy" of Playmates Child Care Inc. He was married to the love of his life, Jean, for 59 wonderful years, a testament to a lifelong commitment built on devotion and partnership. Buddy deeply loved his family, but his grandchildren and great-grandchildren held an especially treasured place in his heart. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with them and watching the family he loved continue to grow.

Buddy's faith was the foundation of his life. He loved God and was devoted to his church family, where he found fellowship, strength, and purpose.

In his younger years, Buddy served in the United States Air Force. He enjoyed working with his hands and had a remarkable ability to build just about anything. Buddy also loved to travel and experience new places and memories with those he loved.

In his later years, one of Buddy's favorite places was Cracker Barrel—specifically the Smithfield location. He visited so often that the staff became like family, and everyone knew him by name. In recognition of his many visits and the joy he brought to those around him, they even presented him with his own four-star apron—a small symbol of the big place he held in the hearts of many.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 11:00am, in the chapel of Parrish Funeral Home. The family will receive visitors one-hour before the service, beginning at 10:00am. Burial will follow in Selma Memorial Gardens. Flowers are appreciated.

Buddy is survived by his children, Margaret Killebrew (John) of Smithfield, Debbie Wooten (Terry) of Clayton, Paula Vann (Jeremy) of Pine Level, Stacy Pilkington (Jessica), and Avery Pilkington (Brittney) of Jacksonville, Florida; siblings, Buster Pilkington (Carolyn), Peggy Henderson (Gene), and Laura Radford (Phil); brother-in-law, Kenneth Anderson; grandchildren, Hannah Naylor (Robie), Holly Benton (CJ), Aubry Wooten (Crystal), Josh Wooten (Analynn), Erin Quinn (Wesley), Mallory Teachey (Brennon), Ashley Moore (Tiara), Wesley Moore, Anthony Boswell (Rosa), Carrie Moore (Paul), Izzy Pilkington, Heather Pilkington (Omar), Korren Pilkington (Haley), Amber Christiansen (Nick), and Austin Winstead (Jordan); 31 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren.

Buddy will be remembered for his faith, his hardworking spirit, his devotion to family, and the kindness he shared so freely with everyone he met. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will live on in the lives he touched.