Essieaurt “Essie” Buffington, age 83, of Knoxville, Tennessee, was born July 3, 1943, and departed this life on August 4, 2026. Essie will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection as a devoted, faithful, and beloved presence—honest in spirit, resilient through life’s seasons, and cherished by all who knew and loved her.
Essie graduated from Austin High School and completed two years of Knoxville College, carrying forward a steady commitment to learning and to the responsibilities set before her. As the daughter of a pastor, she was shaped early by faith and the values of service, and throughout her life she remained grounded in what mattered most.
With a hard-working dedication that never sought attention, Essie retired from the Knox County School System in the early 2000’s after over 25 years. Even in retirement, her desire to serve continued as she worked for Emerald Youth Foundation, giving her time and care in ways that reflected both strength and compassion.
Essie was married to her beloved husband, Homer Buffington, for 36 years during which time their beloved son, Jermaine entered their lives to complete their little family. Their life together stood as a testament to devotion and steadfast love, and her family remained a central joy and responsibility throughout her years.
A woman of sincere faith, Essie was a member of Trinity Chapel from 1990 until her Home Going. She loved to talk about the life and faith of King David, drawing encouragement from Scripture and sharing that encouragement with others. She also liked to talk about the Civil Rights Era and the leaders of that time, reflecting an appreciation for courage, perseverance, and the pursuit of what is right.
Essie loved to read and cook, and she especially enjoyed food and fellowship—simple, meaningful moments where warmth and conversation could bring people closer together. In those everyday gatherings, her faithful heart and honest care were evident, leaving memories that will remain a comfort.
Essie was preceded in death by her father, Elder Haywood Brown; her mother, Josephine Hill Brown; her husband, Homer Buffington; her brothers, June Brown and David Brown; sister-in-law, Marie Buffington and her brothers-in-law, Ernest Buffington and James Buffington.
She is survived by her son, Jermaine Buffington; her sister, Mattie Allen; her brother, James Brown; her nieces and nephews, Christopher Brown, Eli Brown, Byron Brown, Bronwyn Brown, Shawana Gill, Teresa Buffington-Simpson, Dolores Buffington, Deidre Baker, Thomas Baker, and Tony Coleman; and other relatives and friends, Corine Crawford, Billie Johnson, Edna Sanders, Clayton and Vicky Johnson, and Nicole and Kaia Johnson.
A visitation will take place on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 12:00pm with a committal service immediately following in the Magnolia Chapel at 1:00pm, located at Berry Highland South, 9010 E. Simpson Road, Knoxville, TN 37920.
The family would like thank everyone for all of the words of comfort and encouragement.
