Alexander Winstead III
Alexander Franklin “Buddy” Winstead III, 81, passed away on September 19, 2025, in Lexington, Kentucky. Born on May 9, 1944, in Paducah, Kentucky, Buddy lived a vibrant life filled with adventure, craftsmanship, and a signature wit that endeared him to all who knew him.
Buddy served four years in the United States Army before earning his degree from Murray State University. His career as an industrial engineer culminated in his retirement from Leggett & Platt. Retirement brought new adventures as he embraced life on the water as a master captain, often traveling to Chesapeake Bay in Maryland to work on his cherished boat, Sugar Magnolia.
A man of many talents, Buddy was an accomplished woodworker who also enjoyed cooking and listening to music. He had a lifelong passion for car racing and sports. His humor was unforgettable—his clever “Buddisms” were legendary.
Buddy was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Sharon Joan Kingcade Winstead; his father, Alexander F. Winstead; and his mother, Muzell Bryant Winstead.
He is lovingly remembered by his children: Bryan (Cheryl) Winstead, Beth (Tony) Etherington, and Joni Winstead; his sister Daisy (Joe) Rocha; grandchildren Alexandra Winstead, Logan and Abby Etherington, Stephanie Sillah, and Michael Rose; great-grandchildren Isabella and Malik Sillah and Paisley Rose; and his devoted dog Ollie.
A visitation will be held on September 23, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Tucker, Yocum & Wilson Funeral Home, 320 W. Main St. A graveside service will follow on September 24, 2025, at Slaughter Cemetery, 2225 Hwy 1835 in Slaughters, KY.
Friends and family are encouraged to share memories at www.tuckeryocumwilson.com.