"But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope" I Thessalonians 4: 13

In the early morning of Sunday, December 31, 2023, at his residence, Leonard "Bubba" Busby III, 65, received a call from heaven to join his beloved Jesus. He was born Tuesday, April 22, 1958, in Laurel, Mississippi.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 5, 2024, from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM at First Baptist Church of Laurel on 607 W. 5th St., Laurel, Mississippi. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 PM. The burial will then take place in Hickory Grove Cemetery. Dr. John Knox Helveston will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel oversees arrangements. 601-649-3342

Leonard was a 1976 graduate of R.H. Watkins High School. He then received an athletic football scholarship to attend the University of Southern Mississippi to play for the USM Golden Eagles. He fulfilled the role of a standout defense back with the occasional attempted punt. If anyone knew or met Bubba, you would immediately know he was a man on the go. He would flash his warm, electric smile, and you would know you had found a friend. Bubba loved life, and his profound joy came from his family and friends. He was most proud of his beloved wife of 47 years, Lynn, and his two "almost perfect" sons, as well as his two beloved grandsons.

Bubba had many accomplishments on his resume. He juggled many projects throughout his lifetime. Besides standing out as a star athlete, he was successful in numerous business ventures and activities. Things Bubba was involved in: The Masons. Also, Bubba coached many sports and athletes throughout the county. He was a Circle of Champions Foundation member at the University of Southern Mississippi. Participated and served on the board of the Salvation Army. Long-term member while serving many years as a deacon and Sunday school teacher at the First Baptist Church of Laurel. Lifetime Gideon member. Eagle Scout. A fisher of men came first but was followed by a love of the outdoors, such as hunting and fishing. Bubba donated and helped countless others in their time of need. He didn't know what the word NO meant.

Before beginning his business, he gained valuable experience in the oil industry, signage manufacturing, and outdoor advertising. He worked for and alongside industry leaders such as Headrick Sign Company, Pilot Oil Corporation, Marathon Oil, and Yum Brands. Established a partnership with Jimmy and Bill Haslam (Pilot Oil Corporation) in which he permitted and sold on-premises signage locations nationwide. Also, located, permitted, constructed, and once-owned billboards in over 43 states. As a result of this expertise became the owner of Busby Companies.

He was preceded in death by his father, Leonard Busby Jr., and his mother, Cordia Sue Jernigan Busby.

Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Lynn Busby; sons, Leonard Kye Busby IV and Christopher Brant Busby (Laura); sisters, Shelia Martin (Dr. James B.) and Jennifer Gaskin (Bobby); grandsons, Leonard Beau Busby V and Britton Slade Busby.

Pallbearers will be Jeff Bower, Wilson Windham, Jonathan McKinley, Mike McKenzie, Billy Guy, and Norris Wallace.

Honorary pallbearers will be the First Baptist Church of Laurel Adult IV Men's Sunday School Class.

In lieu of flowers, the family humbly requests that memorial contributions be made to The First Baptist Church of Laurel or the Gideons International Ministry. http://www.fbclaurel.org/. http://www.gideons.org/.

An online guestbook may be signed at http://www.colonialchapellaurel.com/