William Rudolph Meins, lovingly known as Bud, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2026, at Piedmont Northside Hospital in Columbus, Georgia. His daughter, Norma Jean, was by his side as he went home peacefully to be with the Lord.

Born on November 9, 1942, in Stuttgart, Arkansas, Bud was the son of Leon and Florence Meins and one of ten children. His life was marked by service, hard work, adventure, faith, and a deep love for his family and his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Bud proudly served his country for 33 years in the United States Air Force and Air Force Reserve. His passion for aviation shaped much of his life and led him to serve in a variety of remarkable roles. He was associated with the C-130 and the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, known as the Hurricane Hunters, and later worked with NASA in Houston, Texas.

Throughout his aviation career, Bud encountered extraordinary aircraft and missions. His work included involvement with the Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, which transported the space shuttle, and the WB-57 high-altitude research aircraft. He also participated in KC-135 zero-gravity aviation and flew during the filming of Apollo 13.

Bud often spoke about how much he enjoyed getting up each day and going to work. For him, aviation was more than a career; it was a passion and a way of life.

When he was not working, Bud enjoyed old country music, Corvettes, boating, fishing, hunting, sunshine, and beautiful sunsets. He treasured life’s simple blessings, from watching hummingbirds and traveling to see the bluebonnets to appreciating the beauty of nature. He saw the wonder of God’s creation in the world around him and carried his faith close to his heart.

Bud never met a stranger. His warmth, humor, stories, and unmistakable personality made people feel welcome wherever he went. He could strike up a conversation with just about anyone, and those who knew him will remember the joy and energy he brought into their lives. Above all, Bud loved his family, and his legacy will live on through the many memories he created with them.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Florence Meins; his sisters, Florene Meins and Barbara Gunnerson; and his son, Dennis Leon Meins.

He is survived by his son, Clifford W. Meins, and wife, Teresa; his daughter, Norma Meins Ramos, and husband, Wilbur; and his late son Dennis’s wife, Gela.

He is also survived by his brothers, Dillard Meins and wife, Carol; Ronnie Meins and wife, Judy; Dale Meins and wife, Nita; and Lanny Meins and wife, Tony; and his sisters, Gladys Kirkemier and husband, Lester; Dana Youder; and Dorothy Riggs.

Bud’s grandchildren include Branson Meins and wife, Whitney; Devin Gill and wife, Sarah; Shane Gill and wife, Amber; Britney Sinclair and husband, Anthony; Tiffany Stinson; Courtney Davis and husband, Dalton; Chad Venus and wife, Nicole; and Wilbur Ramos Jr. He also leaves behind 19 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandsons, and many beloved nieces and nephews. Each carries a part of his family’s story and helps extend his legacy into the future.

A Special Love and Cherished Friendship

Judy Ghormley held a special place in Bud’s heart and life. For 25 years, they shared a special love, cherished friendship, companionship, and countless precious memories. Their loving friendship was an important part of Bud’s life, and his family is grateful for the meaningful love they shared.

With Heartfelt Gratitude

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dawn, Bud’s personal caregiver, for the kindness, compassion, and loving care she provided. They also wish to thank Dr. Leichter, the hospitalists, the nurses at Piedmont Northside Hospital, and Enhabit Home Health for their dedication and care during Bud’s final days.

The family offers special appreciation to Dr. Leichter for his continued efforts to find answers and care for Bud, even while he was away on vacation. They will always be grateful to everyone who helped care for Bud and supported him and his family during this difficult time.

Bud’s life was defined by service, adventure, faith, and love. From the skies he flew to the family he cherished, he leaves a legacy that cannot be measured by years or accomplishments alone. He will be remembered for his generous spirit, his love of life, his devotion to his family, and the many precious memories he leaves behind.

Though he has completed his final flight on earth, his family finds comfort in knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of life honoring William Rudolph “Bud” Meins will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Lone Star Flight Museum, 11551 Aerospace Avenue, Houston, Texas 77034.

Lunch will be served.

For out-of-town guests, hotel accommodations are available at Hampton by Hilton. To reserve a room, please call 281-998-3300 and use code WRM.

Family and friends are invited to gather, share cherished memories, and celebrate Bud’s remarkable life, his love of aviation, his faith, and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Tim Tebow Foundation, the planting of a tree in Bud’s memory, or a charity of your choice in his honor.