Obituary of Albert E. Tarbotton, III

Albert E. “Buddy” Tarbotton III, age 63, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 12, 2024.

Buddy was an advocate for his community, a mentor to many, and a tireless champion for local athletes.  He grew up on Central Avenue in North Wildwood and graduated from Wildwood Catholic High School in 1979.  He stayed true to his roots and became involved in local sports—first as a player, then as a coach and recreation director, and ultimately taking the most pride in being a sports radio broadcaster for more than 30 years.  Buddy often joked that he had a face for radio, ruling out a promotion to television broadcasting.

Buddy enjoyed curling up with a good book on the beach, listening to the radio broadcast of the Phillies on a warm summer evening, and bragging about the successes of local Cape May County athletes.  Some of Buddy’s favorite memories were recounting how talented players ascended from the summer rec leagues he cared so much about, to becoming standout high school players, to earning athletic scholarships to attend college, and ultimately returning to the community as supportive coaches and teachers.

Buddy's life was enriched by his involvement with Notre Dame de la Mer Parish, where he found purpose and a deepened faith. Serving as a lector, usher, and eucharistic minister brought him fulfillment, strengthened his spiritual journey, and provided him with a loving community of supportive friends.

Buddy loved his family and would make a point to tell them that he loved and appreciated them as often as possible, sometimes with a hug but most often by pridefully recounting old stories of their accomplishments.  Buddy is survived by his mother, Maryann Tarbotton; his sister, Michelle Rucci and her husband Mark Rucci; and his nephews, Mark (Chiara), Matthew (Megan), and Micah Rucci.  Buddy was incredibly proud of his nephews, often joking that their successes in life were derivative of his.  He is also survived by his cousins Jackie Hinke and Patty Parson; his nieces Mary Pat, Molly, and Mag Parson; along with many cousins and close friends.  Buddy had a knack for making friends easily because he saw and assumed the best in the people he met.  He lived life generously.

Funeral services will be held at St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church (2901 Atlantic Avenue, Wildwood, NJ 08260) on Saturday, August 3, 2024, beginning with a visitation at 9:30 a.m. and followed by a mass at 11:00 a.m.  In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in Buddy’s name to The Step Back Foundation (donate online at https://thestepbackfoundation.com or mail a check to 200 New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood, NJ 08260). Condolences may be sent to ingersollgreenwoodfh>com