EARL WILLIAM. "BUDDY" SOMNITZ, JR.
Buddy Somnitz passed away Friday, July 26, 2019, at age 72, in the arms of his wife of 54
years, Martha, who was the love of his life and soul mate. She was also his care giver and health
advocate. Buddy was born September 18, 1946, in St. Petersburg, FL and lived in Panama City since 1948.
Survivors include wife, Martha Lisenby Somnitz, daughter, Pamela Earlene Bailey and her domestic partner, Rodney Gilmore. Pamela was Buddy's namesake and light of his life, whom he considered a gift from God, for her love, devotion, compassion and support. Grandsons, John Bailey V and wife, Tiffany; and Derek Bailey. Great grandson, Rylee Bailey, and great granddaughter, Blair Bailey, all of Panama City. Daughter, Marcia and family, one brother and sister, numerous nieces, nephews and by marriage, aunts, a host of cousins and Coco, his Sun Conure Parrot. Also, Stan Dillard, lifelong family friend and prayer warrior.
Buddy was predeceased by father, Earl W. Somnitz, Sr. and mother, Ida Somnitz; sister,
Juanita Sechrest; brothers, Robert Somnitz and Paul Anderson.
A special thank you to Dr. Palep N. Rao, who not only was Buddy's physician, but also
family friend, his "brother" and advocate for 41 years, whom without Dr. Rao's loving care and
devotion, Buddy wouldn't have survived the past four decades of ill health.
Buddy, along with Martha, were owners and publishers of their magazine, Panama City Tour Guide Magazine for 40 years. Until his health declined years ago, Buddy assisted in the printing and photographing hundreds of local residents and tourist, and is fondly remembered by many local former high school and college students for being chosen as Panama City Tour Guide Models. Buddy's greatest joy was spending time with Martha, Pamela and family, spoiling Coco, boating, photography, growing beautiful roses and collecting classic movies. He was a supporter and member of the NRA.
Sadly, Buddy was a member of the "White House Boys," a group of survivors of the now
defunct Florida State operated boys' school, FSB/Dozier. While residing there at age 14 for truancy, Buddy was the victim of numerous vicious beatings, was brutally kicked in the stomach and received other physical abuse. He sustained internal injuries that led to his lifelong daily pain, disability and ultimate death. The public, worldwide, is now aware of and will forever remember, what happened at this horrid facility. Luke 12:2 "For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known." (KJV) Buddy truly believed this verse and knew, all will eventually be revealed. For Buddy...it is finished...God has set him free. No more pain, baby...no more.
As per Buddy's wishes, there will be no services and memorialization will be by cremation. A private family celebration of life services will be held at a later date.
Buddy will be sorely missed, as he was loved and cherished. He was the love of my life...my everything. I'll forever miss his handsome face, sweet smile, comforting words and gentle touch.
Farewell my love...until we are reunited...I love you, and you will live in my heart forever.