Efren “Buddy” Azael Pedraza

Efren “Buddy” Azael Pedraza, age 38, of Gainesville, GA passed to the gates of heaven the evening of July 29, 2019.

He was born February 28, 1981 in Monterrey, Mexico and grew up in Gainesville where he was a 1999 graduate of Gainesville High School. He worked as a Logistics Coordinator for Koch?s Food. And was a member of Comunidad Bautista Latinoamericana.

Efren was a man of integrity, firm believer in his Faith, calm, humble, reserved, yet always easily approachable, kind, with a clever sense of humor. Efren enjoyed spending time with his family and friends especially his two boys, John and Jacob Pedraza. He loved the long car rides to and from wrestling practices and tournaments, while jamming to his favorite tunes. After long hours at tournaments, one would still find Efren on his bed with his boys watching wrestling matches on their phones. He also enjoyed fishing, collecting guns, baseball, cook outs with the family, spending time with his niece, Amanda Pedraza and nephews, Abraham Pedraza and Joseph Pizano, traveling to out of state wrestling tournaments, coming home to his puppy Joy, and spending his days with his wife. Elizabeth and Efren are the perfect example of what true love really means. That?s love that lasts a life time.

“...the righteous man walks with integrity; blessed are his children after him... “ Proverbs 20:7

Efren was a long-standing leader in youth mentorship. He dedicated over 10 years to developing local boys and girls in athletics. Efren was instrumental in creating a year round wrestling program in North Georgia that provided a resource to hundreds of youths that had no other alternative. Efren promoted a strong family environment which was visible everyday as he treated each child as if they were his own, transporting kids to and from practices and events both in and out of state. Efren was a true father, mentor, and friend. His positive influence impacted a community that will forever benefit from his selfless love for family and community. Outside of his family, the sport of wrestling was perhaps his greatest passion, and his calm reassuring presence warmed the bleachers each weekend.

Efren was always someone who kept things in a positive perspective. His half Cheshire cat smile and smooth demeanor kept one grounded when things got tough. He provided a template of how a father and mentor should treat any kid, not just one?s own. His example changed how many lead. One could talk to Efren about anything. Perhaps Efren?s life will inspire others to stop waiting... act now, mend that broken relationship, start chasing that dream, start loving unconditionally.

Efren was preceded in death by his grandparents, Silvino and Herlinda Guzman; father-in-law, Fernando Martinez; aunt, Herlinda “Linda” Westbrook

Efren is survived by his loving wife, of 17 years, Elizabeth Pedraza; 2 of the greatest blessings on earth, his children, John Pedraza and Jacob Pedraza; parents, Jose Luis and Charlene Ruth Pedraza; brother, Luis Alberto Pedraza; sister, Leslie Charlene Pizano (husband, Jose Pizano); niece, Amanda Pedraza; nephews Abraham Pedraza and Joseph Pizano; mother-in-law, Rosa Rodriguez; sister-in-law, Sylivia Davila; bothers-in-law, Juan & Henry Martinez

As we search to make sense of this loss, we find solace in God?s perfect timing.

“...perfect love casts out fear...” 1 John 4:18
“I know that my redeemer lives... I will see God; I myself will see Him...” Job 19:25-27

Funeral service is scheduled for 4:00 PM Thursday, August 1, 2019 at Comunidad Bautista Latinoamericana.

Pastor Reuben Perea will officiate.

Reception and receiving of friends immediately following the service.

Online condolences may be made at www.hillsidechapelfuneralhome.com

Hillside Chapel Funeral Home & Cremation Services 1190 McEver Rd. Gainesville, GA is in charge of arrangements.