Mr. Merle "Buddy" Grider age 88, of Fernandina Beach, passed away Thursday, September 11, 2014 at Riverwood Health & Rehab Center in Starke. Mr. Grider was born on April 7, 1926 in Frostproof, FL to the late Rufus Haskell and Nancy (Eldridge) Grider. He attended the University of Florida for 3 years and graduated from the University of Indiana. Prior to retirement he worked as a lab technician for Container Corporation. Buddy attended St. Marks Episcopal Church in Starke and enjoyed photography. He was a Navy photographer while serving in World War II and was assigned to the Bikini Atoll and Eniwetok in the Marshall Islands for the Atomic experiments in 1945-1946. Preceding him in death was his sister Marjorie Grider Douville. Survivors are: brothers: Lloyd Grider (Anna) of Worthington Springs, Kenneth Grider (Jackie) of Starke, nieces: Cathy Grider of Monticello, and Nancy Grider of Gainesville, nephews: Dr. Bob Douville of Key West, Capt. Bill Douville (Susie) of South Lake TX, great niece: Brianna Douville of South Lake, TX. The family will receive friends at the DEWITT C. JONES CHAPEL in Starke on Saturday, September 20, 2014 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm with a memorial service beginning at 2 oclock. Elder Jimmie Thornton will officiate. Interment with the family present will be at a later date in Crosby Lake Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Haven Hospice, 4200 NW 90th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606. Arrangements are by JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME OF STARKE 904-964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com. hide