Everett Oscar "Bud" McCleerey Jr. passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025, just days before his 82nd birthday. Born on February 25, 1943, Bud lived a full life dedicated to family, service, and his love of sports.

A proud graduate of Ben Davis High School in 1962, Bud went on to serve his country as a sergeant in the U.S. Army from 1964 to 1966. After his military service, he found his calling in food service, working with Greyhound Food Management from 1966 to 1988. His passion for cooking extended into his later years, where he spent time working at Mug n' Bun Restaurant in Speedway, always bringing joy to those he served.

In his younger years, Bud enjoyed fishing, listening to music, and cherishing time with family. Some of his fondest memories were made on fishing trips to Michigan's Upper Peninsula with his sister. A devoted sports fan, Bud especially loved watching IU basketball and cheering on the Colts. He also enjoyed attending Indianapolis Indians games, taking in America's pastime with family and friends. Coaching his sons, Jeff and Mike, in their younger years was one of his greatest joys.

Bud was a fighter, never letting life's challenges bring him down. Even as he battled multiple sclerosis, he remained kind, strong, and full of warmth, touching the lives of all who knew him. His resilience and generosity will be deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett Sr. and Alma McCleerey, as well as his sisters, Martha Irene Burkert (Paul) and Clara Jane Jones. Bud is survived by his loving sister, Sandy Pickett (Bob), and his children: Shannon McCleerey-Clark, Holly McCleerey, Jeffrey McCleerey, and Michael McCleerey (Diane).

Above all, Bud took immense pride in his grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to share stories about them. He leaves behind a legacy of love through Emily Cochran (Cullen), Lynsey White (Josh), Taylor Worland (Woody), Brent McCleerey (Madison), Coleman Clark, Matthew McCleerey, Bradley McCleerey, and Kylie McCleerey.

Bud's joy extended even further to his great-grandchildren, who brought him endless happiness: Linlee, Kopen, and Siler Everett Worland; Chloe and Cooper Cochran; Quinly, Elaina, and Elyse McCleerey; and Josie and Camille White.

Bud's kindness, humor, and unwavering spirit will forever be remembered. His family finds comfort in knowing he is at peace, watching over them with the same love and pride he always carried in his heart.

A celebration of Bud's life is planned for 1:00 pm, Monday, February 24, 2025 at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, Greenwood. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens with military honors conferred by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Military Honor Guard.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 am until the time of services at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his honor to an organization supporting Multiple Sclerosis research.