Buddy Leaves a Legacy
In 2016, the communities of Simpson and Glasco received word that lifetime resident, neighbor, and friend, James “Buddy” Louthan, made a generous decision that would forever impact their communities.
Buddy was raised on a farm between Simpson and Glasco and was the only child of Frank and Lila Maxine Louthan. Buddy never married, he had no children and when it came time to think about the future of his estate, he chose to leave a legacy in the two small towns that supported him all his life.
It was Buddy’s desire, that upon his passing, the farm in which he had inherited, would benefit the communities he loved. Today, two funds, one for each community are naed in memory of Buddy and his parents and annually support each town with an average amount between $21,000-$30,000 individually.
The first grants from Buddy’s funds were awarded in 2017 and were used to make street improvements and purchase new electric doors for the fire station. Since that time, funds have supported the purchase of new playground equipment, the removal of dilapidated and hazardous structures, along with improvements to a pump house and other city buildings. Grants have been made to the Glasco preschool, library, senior center, VFW Hall and more.
Since 2016 Buddy’s gift has allowed for nearly $366,665 in grants to the communities of Simpson & Glasco. In the next 25 years, it is projected to make cumulative grants of more than $1.8 million. In the next 50 years, the fund is projected to make cumulative grants of more than $4.6 million.
Because Buddy’s funds are permanently endowed, his gift will not only continue to grow, but will provide funding each and every year. The legacy of Buddy and his family will live on forever, and the generosity of his gift will be felt throughout both communities for years to come.
