Obituary of Iverson Myers Cash

Iverson Myers Cash, Jr. (Buddy) celebrated the Victory of the Resurrection on December 14, 2014, after a blessed life of 95 years. Buddy was born in Roanoke on August 22, 1919, to the late Iverson M. Cash, Sr. (Red) and Addie Jones Cash Strange. He was the stepson of James W. Strange and Dottie B. Cash. Buddy was predeceased by his wife of 68 years, Hazel Robinson Cash, three sisters, Thelma Harris (Ran), Hazel St.Clair (Roy), and Addelle Thurman (Fred), his beloved son-in-law, Paul F. Armentrout, Jr., nephews, Douglas Luck and Gregory Cassell and niece, Sharon Hardie. Buddy joined the United States Navy in 1940 and became a true American hero during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. He was a Boatswain’s Mate 1/C and the Gun Captain of the #1 gun on the USS Conyngham, DD371. Along with his shipmates, he fought in the Pacific throughout World War II, providing sea, air and ground support for troops. The Conyngham received 14 battle stars. Buddy also served a short assignment aboard the USS Allendale, APA127. The Allendale received 1 battle star. When World War II ended in 1945, Buddy married his “Baby” and the love of his life, Hazel Robinson. They made their home at Camp Perry in Williamsburg and later transferred to Port Deposit in Bainbridge, Maryland where he trained recruits. After his discharge from the Navy, Buddy and Hazel returned to Roanoke. He was Traffic Manager for the S. H. Heironimus Co. department stores. Buddy cherished his family and loved being husband, Daddy, Pawpaw and Uncle Buddy. He volunteered with the Girl Scouts, the Boy Scouts, and the UMYF, loving and encouraging all children. He was a member of Melrose Avenue United Methodist Church where he was active in the Friendship Sunday School Class and the UMM. Later, Buddy became a member of Southview United Methodist Church. He was a life member of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, a life member of Tin Can Sailors and a member of the League of Naval Destroyermen. Buddy spent hours making and giving away display boards filled with nautical knots. He enjoyed teaching his knot-tying skills, sharing WWII history with small groups in schools and at the D-Day Memorial, playing “farmer,” helping neighbors with projects and lending a hand to anyone who needed his help. Buddy is survived by his daughters, Patricia Armentrout, Barbara James (Paul), grandchildren, David Crossley, Kathryn Armentrout, Paul Armentrout, III (Lynnette), John Armentrout, great grandchildren, Monty Armentrout (Stephanie) and their children Holly and Jameson, Elizabeth Armentrout and Gary Armentrout and many special nieces and nephews. We can never forget the man with the sweet, mischievous grin and quick wit, who faithfully served his God and his country, treasured his family and cared deeply for others, the man who always looked for the blessing in any situation. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7 (NKJV) A Service of Death and Resurrection and a celebration of Buddy’s life will be conducted by The Rev. Mr. David V. Ford at Southview United Methodist Church, 3539 Peters Creek Road, NW, on Thursday, December 18 at 2:00 o’clock and will conclude at Sherwood Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. In remembrance of one so dear to us, the family respectfully suggests that you cherish your freedom and thank a Veteran and that you share your blessings with someone in need. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home (540) 366-0707