Buddy Joe Hargis was born in Springfield, Colorado, on September 24, 1930, to James Robinson Hargis and Dora Marsh Hargis. Buddy was the youngest of seven – sisters; Viola Belle, Troy Louise and brothers; Marsh Givens, James R.C. Jr., Gerald Wayne and Jack Eldon.

Buddy attended Springfield schools and played football. When he was 17, he joined the Navy so he could "see the world". While stationed in Korea, Buddy became pen pals with Nancy Berggren. A friendly correspondence followed and romance bloomed.

In 1951 Buddy was transferred to San Francisco. In July of that year he and Nancy met face to face. He had already asked Nancy to marry him and had received a favorable reply. They were married on September 2, 1951. Buddy retired from the Navy on April 3, 1967.

Buddy and Nancy moved their family to Springfield in 1978. Buddy held several positions after moving back to Colorado. These included; running a print shop, driving a grain truck, bus agent, laundromat operator, newspaper deliverer, and growing chickens and guineas.

On December 14, 2015, Buddy passed away. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; sons, David and Mark (Mary Ann); daughter, Viola; 3 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren.