Roll Call Tribute

William Carroll Book, Jr. 

December 16, 1944 - April 22, 2025 

Mr. William Carroll "Buddy" Book, Jr., also known as Bill, passed away on April 22, 2025, in Houston, Texas, at the age of 80. Born on December 16, 1944, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Buddy spent his formative years in Lufkin, Texas, where he developed a deep and lasting love for nature. His childhood adventures in the woods with his lifelong best friend Andy Shephard sparked a passion for the outdoors that remained with him throughout his life.

Buddy began his academic journey at Texas A&M University but transferred to Stephen F. Austin State University following the death of his father. There, he completed his undergraduate studies before earning his law degree from the University of Houston Law Center. Demonstrating remarkable determination and resilience, he graduated early and with honors while working full time and supporting his growing family.

Over a legal career spanning more than five decades, Buddy became an accomplished and revered trial attorney. As a member of the State Bar of Texas, he was a founding member of the Personal Injury Trial Law section and held board certification from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization for over 40 years. He was also a fellow of the Society of Legal Scholars for three decades. Buddy was selected by his peers for membership in the American Board of Trial Advocates and later was elevated to diplomat. His peers also invited him to become a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers as well as the International Academy of Trial Lawyers and other prestigious "by invitation only" organizations as well. But his crowning contribution to the profession was his direct mentorship of many younger attorneys. Buddy left his indelible mark on each one as they became skilled trial lawyers practicing the "Book way". Leading by example, Buddy personally tried more than 200 cases to verdict with unwavering dedication and skill.

Beyond the courtroom, Buddy was an avid outdoorsman who found joy and peace in nature. He had a lifelong passion for hunting and game management and treasured time spent in the woods with friends, family, and his beloved dogs. His son Trey and friend Andy were frequent companions on these outdoor adventures, along with many others fortunate enough to be invited into that cherished circle.

Buddy's quiet generosity touched many lives. A strong supporter of higher education, he personally funded numerous students' educational pursuits without seeking recognition or praise. At age 69, Buddy received a second chance at life through the selfless gift of organ donation. A 25-year-old donor from Houston, gave him renewed strength through the gift of a lung - a gesture Buddy never took for granted.

Buddy is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Ida McLane Book; daughter Shey Book O'Dowd (Bernie) of Culver City, California; granddaughters Sadie O'Dowd and Ivy O'Dowd; and sisters Jan Book Smith (Lamar) of Fort Worth, Elizabeth Book Satterwhite (Jeff) of Austin, and Carol Book Stromatt (Richard) of The Woodlands. He was preceded in death by his beloved son William Carroll Book III (Trey), who passed away in 2020 at age 54 after a lifelong battle with Type I diabetes.

A visitation will be held on June 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at George H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Directors, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston. A service will follow on June 18, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Tallowood Baptist Church, located at 555 Tallowood Road. In lieu of other forms of tribute, please consider supporting Donate Life Texas (https://www.donatelifetexas.org) and take time to discuss organ donation with your loved ones. May Buddy's memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who follow in his footsteps.