On May 3, 2025, Walter Albert Soefker, also known as “Buddy,” passed away peacefully at his Memphis home at 83 after a long illness.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Gail Ann Fly, their five children—Stacy, Darby, Brett, Walter, and Curt—16 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and his sister, Linda Soefker Bradshaw.
Born on March 4, 1942, to Walter Albert “Bud” Jr. and Era Carter Soefker, Buddy was a natural-born athlete whose presence was impossible to ignore.
His mother famously carried his birth certificate to prove he was in the right age group for sports, as his size and talent often made him seem older than he was.
He was raised in Memphis Alongside His Sister Linda,
Buddy’s Athletic Journey Began Early And Never Slowed Down
At Christian Brothers High School (CBHS), Buddy followed in his father’s footsteps and became a legend.
He was the only athlete in CBHS history to letter in all 16 sports offered—an unmatched feat.
While still in high school, he was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals to play Major League Baseball alongside the late Tim McCarver.
Despite the lure of baseball, football, and the promise of a college degree, he won his heart. He accepted a scholarship to play for the LSU Tigers.
At LSU, Buddy was a star on both sides of the ball, shining as a running back on offense and a defensive back on the famed “Chinese Bandits” defense.
His academic excellence matched his athletic achievements, earning him a degree in mechanical engineering.
His skills on the gridiron caught the attention of the NFL, and the Los Angeles Rams drafted him.
After marrying his childhood sweetheart, Gail, Buddy moved to the West Coast to begin his professional football career.
Buddy’s devotion to Gail Ann Fly began at 11, when they met in the sixth grade at St. Anne’s Highland.
From that moment, Gail was the center of his world.
He would ride his horse, Danny Boy, from Germantown to Perkins Terrace to see her—a romantic gesture that spoke to his determination and heart.
Though Gail briefly broke things off in 10th grade (a moment Buddy jokingly said he never fully recovered from), their love endured.
They married and built a life together, raising five children and creating a family filled with love, laughter, and countless memories.
Buddy’s daughter, Stacy, shared a heartfelt tribute after his passing, posting nostalgic photos and writing,
“I lost my hero today. And the shirt lied – he was a Great Dad. 💔”
Via Facebook
Furthermore, his daughter-in-law wrote:
“The guy who was always ready to jump in and help take care of you, anytime, anywhere, no matter what. Always ready to laugh and talk about his newest favorite music or movie “discovery.” He was a one of a kind father in law that will be missed but never forgotten. His dedication and love for his family has provided all of us with countless memories to last for lifetimes to come.”
Via Facebook
Many friends and community members shared their love for him. They described a man who made a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Buddy Joined His Family Business As A Leader And Was Deeply Committed To Giving Back
After his time with the Rams, Buddy returned to Memphis with Gail to join the family business, W.A. Soefker & Son Inc., founded by his father and grandfather.
Under his leadership, the mechanical contracting company grew into a highly successful regional enterprise.
Buddy’s engineering skills and strong work ethic were essential to the company’s success. His humility and care for his employees made it truly special.
Beyond business, Buddy was deeply committed to giving back.
He volunteered on numerous boards and organizations, including the FedEx St. Jude Golf Tournament, St. Agnes, and CBHS.
He also taught Catholic confirmation classes, sharing his faith with the next generation.
His service reflected his belief in community and the importance of lifting others up.
Buddy was happiest with his family when he wasn’t working or volunteering.
He cherished trips to the family lake house at Greers Ferry, ski adventures, and annual beach vacations.
These moments were filled with stories, laughter, and the kind of love that binds generations.
His 16 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren were the light of his life, and he never missed a chance to cheer them on or share a story from his colorful past.
One such story came from a friend, David J. Brooks, who wrote,
Another friend’s wife shared a moment from Buddy’s high school days:
” I’ve always heard wonderful things about your father. My husband, Roger, went to school and played sports with him. On a bus trip to a game Buddy sat next to Roger. He saw Roger’s lunch that his mother had made. He told Roger he would give him 25 cents for his chocolate cupcake. Roger gave him the cupcake for 25 cents. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.”
Via Facebook
Walter “Buddy” Soefker’s life showed the importance of love, commitment, and living life to the fullest.
From his record-breaking athletic career to his business leadership and unshakable commitment to family and faith, he inspired everyone around him.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched.
Services for Buddy will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Memphis.
will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. in the Clunan Center, followed by a Rosary at 9:30 a.m. and a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Entombment at Memorial Park Mausoleum will be held privately.
As Memphis mourns the loss of a true legend, we celebrate the life of Walter Soefker—a man who lived with passion, loved deeply, and left the world better than he found it.
