R.E. "Buddy" Fanning, Jr., 79, of Florence, left this earthly realm to go to his eternal heavenly home on Wednesday, July 8, 2015, after a brief illness.

A funeral service celebrating his life will be held on Friday, July 10, 2015, at 11 a.m. in the Chapel at Elkins Funeral Home, Florence. Visitation will follow the service. Bro Kevin Johnson, Pastor of First Baptist Church Florence, and long time friend Ron Phillips, will officiate at the service. Burial will be at Greenview Memorial Park.

Mr. Fanning was preceded in death by his two sons, Steve and Mark Fanning; parents, R.E. Fanning, Sr. and Rowena Fanning; sister, Nancy Wallace; and brother, Frank Fanning.

Mr. Fanning is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 60 years, Dean Fanning; daughter, Paige Abernathy (Keith); grandson, Grayson Abernathy; and several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Fanning was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Florence. He was a very loving, devoted, and caring husband, father, and grandfather. He was happiest when he was spending time with his family, especially his grandson Grayson, with whom he shared a very special bond.

A special thanks to Drs. Lyman Mitchell, Brian Cole, and Felix Morris for providing excellent care, also, to the nurses and staff of CCU and ICU at ECM Hospital for providing such wonderful, loving and compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude''s Children''s Hospital, one of Mr. Fanning''s favorite organizations.