Recognized as one of the nation’s noted authorities on sports officiating, Jackson’s R.L. “Buddy” Patey passed away, Friday.

‘Buddy’ began refereeing after his football playing days at Union University. He served in the Southeastern Conference for twenty years and was chief umpire when he retired.

He would become only one of three officials to gain induction into the Southeastern Conference Hall of Fame.

Patey officiated in seven bowl games, including the Bluebonnet, Gator, Tangerine, Cotton, Liberty, Peach, and Orange. He officiated over 200 games, consistently working the “big” events, including SEC rivalries, TV games, and seven consecutive Alabama-Auburn matches.

In the Ohio Valley Conference, he was supervisor of officials for twenty years, served as chief umpire, and is past president of the OVC Football Officials Association. Patey was also active in high school football, officiating over 500 games, including five state championships and seventeen bowl games.

He also served as the coordinator of officials for the Tennessee State High School Football Championships.

A native of Tupelo, Mississippi, Patey has made his home in Jackson, following his graduation from Union. A children’s book author, sports columnist, and radio and television sports show host, his skills and accomplishments are truly varied.

His honors also included induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame, Jackson Madison County Sports Hall of Fame and the Union University Sports Hall of Fame.

Patey served as vice-mayor of Jackson and has been honored with the “Buddy Patey Day” in Camden, Tennessee.

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(PHOTO: Buddy Patey)