Celebrate Buddy Hall's Legacy and Life

Help Honor a Pool Legend: Cecil P. "Buddy" Hall

Cecil P. "Buddy" Hall, a true icon in the world of professional pool, passed away on May 22, 2025, just days shy of his 80th birthday. Born on May 29, 1945, in Metropolis, Illinois, Buddy rose from humble beginnings to become one of the greatest nine-ball players of all time. Known as "The Rifleman" for his pinpoint accuracy, his legacy in the sport is unmatched. Today, his granddaughter Lucy is reaching out to the community through this GoFundMe campaign to cover Buddy’s final expenses and give him the dignified farewell he so richly deserves.

A Legendary Career

Buddy’s journey in pool began at age 14 in a small-town soda shop, where he first picked up a cue stick. By his twenties, he was a professional, dominating tables with a skill that left opponents and spectators in awe. Over his illustrious career, Buddy claimed over 100 professional tournament victories, including the prestigious U.S. Open 9-Ball Championship in 1991 and 1998. One unforgettable moment came during the 1991 U.S. Open semi-finals, when he trailed Johnny Archer 7-1, only to run eight consecutive racks to secure a stunning victory. Archer later said, "Buddy in the game of Nine-ball was: 'The best I've ever seen, the best I've ever played.'"

His accolades speak volumes: inducted into the Billiard Congress of America's Hall of Fame in 2000, Buddy was named Player of the Year multiple times (1982, 1991, 1997, 1998). Beyond his wins, he revolutionized the game by creating the "clock system", a cue-ball control technique still used by players today. Buddy’s dedication was summed up in his own words: "I just worked hard. I played a lot of pool, and I wasn’t playing like it was a job. I was playing for the fun of it because I loved to play."

A Man of Heart and Family

Beyond the green felt, Buddy was a devoted family man. He cherished his loved ones, especially his granddaughter Lucy, who was a light in his life. Despite his fame, he remained humble, always willing to share his knowledge with younger players and fans. His love for pool wasn’t just about winning—it was about the joy of the game and the connections he built along the way.

Why We Need Your Help

Buddy’s passing has left a void in the pool community and in the hearts of his family. Lucy, his granddaughter, is organizing this campaign to ensure her grandfather receives a proper farewell. The funds raised will go toward covering his final expenses, allowing us to honor Buddy’s incredible life and legacy with the respect he deserves.

Join Us in Celebrating Buddy’s Legacy

We invite you to contribute to this GoFundMe campaign and help us say goodbye to a true legend. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to giving Buddy the send-off he earned through decades of skill, passion, and kindness. Please consider donating and sharing this campaign with others who knew Buddy or admire his contributions to pool.

Thank you for your generosity and for helping us keep Buddy Hall’s memory alive.