Melvin "Buddy" Jackson Vassar, a generous, hard-working, humorous, kind-hearted, thoughtful, and wise individual, passed away on February 4, 2026, at the age of 77. A resident of Willis, Texas, Buddy was born on October 6, 1948, at home, the fifth of six children to Edgar and Lydia Vassar. He graduated from Sam Houston High School in 1967.
Buddy served two years in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Purple Heart. After his military service, he joined the Houston Police Department in 1971 and dedicated over three decades serving the community working in Patrol, and Homicide and Sex Crimes, before retiring as a sergeant on June 8, 2005.
He was married to Cheryl Alford Vassar for 51 years, from 1974 to 2026. Together, they raised three children and were blessed with ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Buddy cherished his family immensely and counted Robert Phillips as the best family friend a person could have.
Buddy had a passion for fast cars, hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family. He enjoyed golf cart rides with Missy, his beloved dog. He was best at beating Cheryl in Scrabble, and loved playing Pictionary with his family. His warmth and playfulness were so infectious that neighborhood children would specifically ask if Buddy could come out to play.
Buddy's legacy is one of unconditional love and generosity. He was known for his stubbornness but always managed to bring laughter to those around him. His presence in the community, especially among his grandchildren, will be deeply missed.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Harbor Hospice, Visiting Angels, Kathy Blakeman (caregiver), and the many family and friends who provided support over the last three weeks.
Buddy is survived by his wife, Cheryl Vassar; his sons, Dean Vassar (Robbie Vassar) and Shilo Snively (Linda Chapa); and his daughter, Becky Reese. His grandchildren are Mark Vassar (Kim Vassar), Courtney Meche (BJ Meche), Sean Collier, Cory Snively, John Infante, Jennae Infante, Donna Jo Infante, Brandon Reese (Calista Novak), Katelyn Reese, and Caleb Reese. His great-grandchildren include Brett Vassar, Colby Vassar, Emily Vassar, Taylin Meche, Greyson Meche, Kinley Reese, Jaylen Infante, Aniyah Infante, and Malachi Long. He is also survived by his sisters, Gracie Good, Mary Brewer (Wayne Brewer), and Brenda Campbell (Gerald Campbell).
He was predeceased by his father, Edgar Vassar; his mother, Lydia Vassar; and his sisters, Geneva Heffner (Bob Heffner), Billie Vassar, and Rebecca Vassar, and Jack Good.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation.
He will be missed by many, especially his grandchildren, whom he treasured greatly.
