Buford was born on June 3, 1929, on a farm in Harrogate, TN and was the youngest along with his twin sister, Beulah, of George and Cornie Brooks' ten children.
Buford was in the Army from 1950 to 1952, where he trained for Korea but was sent to Germany along with other soldiers from Claiborne County. He received the Occupational Medal for time spent in Germany. He loved to garden, was a well-known grouse hunter, carpenter, farmer, and loved to fish with his son David. He had many sayings he shared when talking to family and friends. One of his favorites was "fine as frog hair" when asked how he was doing.
He was the oldest member of Pump Springs Baptist Church and a member of Olen Brooks' Sunday School class which he was able to attend until January 26, 2025.
Buford was preceded in death by his wife, Vernice Brooks; his sons, Dale Brooks and Terry Brooks; parents, George Columbus Brooks and Cornie Ramsey Brooks; siblings: half-sister Herthel Brooks Fletcher, Myrtle Vannoy, twins, Mildred and Mabel Brooks, Ruby Drotos, Ruth Harber, Gladys Fleemon, Beulah Brooks Clarkson, Luther Brooks and George Clayton Brooks.
He is survived by son, David Brooks; daughter, Anita Brooks; daughter-in-law, Rosanne Brooks; and papaw to grandchildren Justin Brooks, Tracy Brooks Longhurst and Barry Brooks. As well as several nieces, nephews, brother-in-law Charles Williams, and other family and friends.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday April 2, 2025 from 3:00 until 5:00 PM at Pump Springs Baptist Church. Celebration of Life to follow at 5:00 PM with interment following the service at the Scott Cemetery in Harrogate, TN.
Officiants: Pastor Dr. John Ditty, Associate Pastor Will Deavours, and Rev. Todd Haley
Special music by: Amy Pendleton, Teddy Cosby and Gary Robinson
Pallbearers: Deacons of the church, family and friends
The family wishes to express their gratitude to Amedisys Home Health and Smoky Mountain Hospice for the care given to our father.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Scott Cemetery c/o Donna Lay, 520 High Street, Harrogate, TN 37752.
