John Edward Bufford

John received his early education in the Loachapoka School System and continued his studies in the Auburn City School System, graduating from Drake High School in Auburn, Alabama, in 1961. Committed to lifelong learning and professional growth, he furthered his education throughout his military career, completing numerous courses and training programs that enhanced his leadership skills and contributed to his success in the United States Air Force.

At an early age, John accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and united with Pleasant View Baptist Church. Later in life, he moved his membership to Ebenezer Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Loachapoka, Alabama, where he remained a faithful supporter of the church and its ministry.

John answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. He served loyally, honorably, and with distinction for thirty years, achieving the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. Throughout his exemplary military career, he demonstrated outstanding leadership, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to duty.

His many military honors and decorations included the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, Humanitarian Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and numerous other awards and commendations. These distinctions reflect a lifetime of service, sacrifice, and commitment to excellence in defense of his nation.

Following his retirement from military service, John continued his dedication to public service as a Civil Service employee with the United States Air Force at Incirlik Air Base in Adana, Turkey. For approximately twenty years, he faithfully supported the mission while exemplifying the same leadership, integrity, and devotion that characterized his military career. His professionalism, steadfast work ethic, and commitment to excellence earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends alike, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

John also remained committed to supporting fellow veterans. He regularly met with and encouraged veterans at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Montgomery, Alabama, offering friendship, support, and camaraderie to those who had served alongside him in defense of the nation.

Outside of his service to God, country, and community, John enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys and proudly wore his Cowboys apparel regardless of the team's fortunes, remaining faithful even during championship droughts. His loyalty to "America's Team" became one of his most recognizable traits and a source of good-natured conversation among family and friends.

Earlier in life, John was a member of Aswan Temple No. 115, Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, Prince Hall Affiliated. He was also a dedicated member of Loachapoka Lodge No. 292 for more than fifty-five years, where he built lifelong friendships and faithfully supported the principles of Freemasonry.

John peacefully transitioned from labor to reward on June 3, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, loyalty, and love.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jennifer E. Bufford; sisters, Cassandra Bufford and Lettye Bufford; and brothers, James E. Bufford and Michael Bufford.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of sixty-four years, Geraldine D. Bufford; his son, Jeffrey E. Bufford; grandchildren, Courtney J. (Teisha) Dunn, Terrance "T.J." (Libby) Dunn, and Ericka D. (Devin) Hughes; great-grandchildren, Deniyah Johnson and Camden Hughes; sister, Lueweeta Oliver; brother, John Derrick (Demara) Bufford; sisters-in-law, Jacqueline Williams, Diane D. Walker, and Dorothy Bufford; special cousins, Jessie Combs and Barbara Howard; a daughter of love, Violet W. (Freddie) Henderson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his presence.

His legacy of honor, integrity, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Mr. Bufford will lay in state at Alabama Heritage Funeral Home, 10505 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, AL 36117, US, on June 12, 2026, from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm.

A funeral service will be held at Alabama Heritage Funeral Home, June 12, 2026, at 12:00 pm.

A committal service will be held immediately after the service.