Pleasant D. "Buddy" Joplin, Jr.

Deacon Pleasant D. “Buddy” Joplin, Jr., 73, of Indianapolis, Indiana, transitioned to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 19, 2018 in Greenfield Healthcare Facility, Greenfield, Indiana. Pleasant was born on May 20, 1945 to the Late Pleasant D. Joplin, Sr. and Willie O. Joplin (nee Washington) in Delbarton, West Virginia. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his brother James I. Joplin, Sr.

At an early age, Buddy accepted Christ and became a member of 2^nd Mt. Zion Baptist Church, in Williamson, West Virginia. He graduated from Magnolia High School in 1964 in Matewan, West Virginia. While in high school he excelled as a football player. In 1965 he went on to attend West Virginia University before joining the United States Marine Corps. Buddy served in the United States Marine Corps in the field of transportation until July 1976.

After moving to Indianapolis, Indiana, Buddy joined Mt. Helm Missionary Baptist Church where he dedicated his life to service the Lord. He was a faithful member during his time at Mt. Helm, where he served as the Sunday School Superintendent, member of the Mass Choir, and Male Chorus. His service and dedication to the Church were recognized on August 14, 1988, when his Pastor ordained Buddy as a Deacon of the church.

Buddy worked as a security officer for Naval Avionics, which was later names Raytheon, until his retirement in 1999. Buddy attended Clark College where he successfully completed his Associate’s Degree in Business Administration Management. He later went on to attend Martin University where he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management.

After his retirement, Buddy spent time with family and helping with his grandchildren. He enjoyed watching and attending sporting events. His favorite teams were IU, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Indiana Pacers.

Buddy leaves to cherish his memory: his wife of 34 years, Betty Joplin; his daughters: Michelin (Adrian) Joplin-Beale of St. John’s Florida, Michele (Tracy) Shelton of Shalimar, Florida; son: Melvyn Curry of Dallas, Texas; daughters: Ditanya Curry and Shawne Robinson of Indianapolis, Indiana; grandchildren: LaShay, Jeremie, Sjonyae, Melvyn, Domonique, Rylan, Christian, Nadia, Nathalie, Nia; great grandchildren: Dajana, Jaylah, Keagan, and Skylar.

He is also survived by his sisters: Sharon Joplin of West Virginia, Donna Seaberry of Georgia; brothers: Ronald (Harriet) Joplin of West Virginia, Raymond (Donna) Joplin of West Virginia; uncle: Irving (Lillie) Washington of Indiana, Aunts: Phyllis Bell of Pennsylvania, and Dorothy Washington of West Virginia; one special daughter: DeLondia Jones; two Godchildren: Shawn Taylor, Jr. and Ashawnte Taylor; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Funeral services will be held at Mt. Helm Missionary Baptist Church on Saturday, June 30, 2018 at 12:00 p.m. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service, also at church. Burial with Military Honors will follow services in Washington Park East Cemetery. To view an extended obituary please visit www.flannerbuchanan.com.