William W.L. Saferight

William Lee Saferight, 79, known as W.L., Safe, but most often “Bud,” of Eatonton, Georgia, passed away on April 12, 2025—fittingly, during Masters Week. A true lover of golf, his final days were spent surrounded by family and the familiar sight of a well-struck putt on an Augusta National green next to the azaleas: “Oh! What a putt!” Bud was born in North Carolina in 1945, and he and his family moved to Georgia in 1972. A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, he served his country for four years before building a long and successful career with BellSouth, where he worked for 29 years and retired as Vice President of Quality for the Real Yellow Pages. He married the love of his life, Virginia Carolyn Saferight (née Little), in 1963 after meeting her at an American Legion dance. Bud and Carol’s marriage of nearly 62 years was filled with love, laughter, and adventure—and a lot of sawdust from Bud’s woodworking shop. Together, they built a home on Lake Sinclair (with “stars” in the ceiling), raised a family that adored him, including three cherished grandchildren that were truly his pride and joy. He built more than a home on Lake Sinclair – he built memories, friendships, and a legacy of incredible fireworks shows. An avid golfer, Bud didn’t just watch and play the game. For 22 years, he proudly served as a Gallery Guard at The Masters, an experience he treasured deeply. The Fourth of July was his favorite holiday, and his booming “Happy Birthday, America!” echoed across Railroad Cove every summer, a tradition lovingly carried on by his grandson, Steven, who also took up the honor of lighting fireworks from the dock. Bud is survived by his beloved wife, Carol (Puddin’); his son, Darrin Tad Saferight; his grandchildren, Carolyn Ashley Saferight (Michael Curry) of Cleveland, Ohio, Steven Saferight (Courtney) of Byron, Georgia, and Kristen Saferight of Dallas, Georgia; and his great-granddaughter, Addilynn Saferight. He is also survived by his half-sister, Twila Johnson. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a future time. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bud’s name to Sipe’s Orchard Home, a children’s home at 4431 County Home Rd., Conover, NC 28613 - https://www.sipesorchardhome.org/growing-futures/.

William W.L. Saferight

July 18, 1945 - April 12, 2025