OBITUARY

Thomas Joseph Bufkin

January 5, 1948 – November 5, 2017
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Thomas Joseph Bufkin

Thomas Joseph Bufkin passed away on Sunday, November 5, 2017. He was 69.

Tommy was born in Clinton, Mississippi, on January 5, 1948, to Otis and Anne Bufkin. He was raised in Clinton, played strong safety for the Arrows, and graduated from Mississippi State University where he was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Tommy served proudly in the Army National Guard, where he was named outstanding basic infantry trainee at Fort Ord, California. Always athletic, Tommy was a long-time MHSAA football referee and had the privilege of officiating several state championship games. Like his father before him, Tommy spent his entire career with State Farm Insurance serving as an agent with the Company for over 40 years.

Tommy is best remembered for his warm heart and engaging personality. He had innumerable friends, some very close and others merely acquaintances, but all seemed to genuinely connect with Tommy. He truly was welcomed and appreciated wherever he went, whether for his good humor in the duck blind, his loving support of his grandkids at football and baseball games, or behind-the-scenes in the business of politics. He will be missed by his family and many friends.

Tommy is preceded in death by his parents Edward Otis Bufkin and Anne Phillips Bufkin. He is survived by his three sons, Thomas Gerry Bufkin, Patrick Joseph Bufkin, and Edward Pearce Bufkin, as well as his brother Edward Otis Bufkin, Jr. and sister Sandra Bufkin Northern. Tommy's daughters-in-law include Ashley Hester Bufkin, Dinah Marie Bufkin, and Ashley Davidson Bufkin. Tommy's grandchildren are Patrick Barrett Bufkin, Thomas Hayes Bufkin, Gerry Winslow Bufkin, Thomas Beau Bufkin, Elizabeth Clark Bufkin, and Wyatt William Bufkin.

Visitation will be held at Parkway Funeral Home on Highland Colony Parkway in Ridgeland, Mississippi, on Tuesday, November 7, 2017, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A burial service will be held for family and close friends on Wednesday, November 8, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. at Antioch Baptist Church located at 4088 Antioch Road, Hazlehurst, Mississippi. In lieu of flowers, family and friends are invited to make donations in Tommy's name to the Antioch Baptist Church.

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  • Visitation

    Tuesday, November 7, 2017

  • Graveside Service

    Wednesday, November 8, 2017

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Thomas Joseph Bufkin

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CARL GRAY

December 30, 2017

I just found out about Mr. Bufkin, and from our family to his, you have our sympathy. We thank God for him. He was the family's insurance man for over 30 years. He started with me and continued with all the children. Thank you Tommy.

Mike McPhearson

December 20, 2017

We will never forget you brother. You will always be a part of the old group that graduated from CHS in '66...me, Rankin, Garriga, Turcotte, Henry and you, to name a few. Rest easy.

Larry Hendricks

November 10, 2017

It was a great privilege for me to help conduct Mr. Tommy's graveside service. Thanks to the family for asking that. It was a privilege as well to meet this wonderful and warmhearted family. I'm glad I could give a word of comfort to them all. I didn't have the privilege of knowing Mr. Tommy, but I hope to meet him someday in Heaven. His family was instrumental in the formation and history of our church, Antioch Baptist Church, where I have the privilege of serving as pastor.

Sheri Ross

November 8, 2017

So sorry for your loss.............................

Mr. Bufkin was a great person with a big smile and a warm heart. My sincere condolences to you Mr. Gerry Bufkin and Family. My prayers are with you.

via Huffman & Company

Anita Wilson

November 8, 2017

Go rest high on the mountain or any other heavenly place you select. Don't fret over any of us old friends or customers. You've taught Laura and Kristen well...we will so miss you and wish you could stay, but that is selfish. You have suffered enough and surely have earned your wings. Go with God now my friend and thank you for everything!Tell Mr. Otis hello and your Mom too.

Susan G. Johnston

November 8, 2017

Ed, Sandra and family, I am so sorry to hear about cousin Tommy. The childhood memories I have of all the gatherings and laughter when visiting the Bufkin family will always remain in my heart. One of my favorites is when Tommy taught me all about horses and how to ride his horse Lucky, a memory I will never forget. At this time, I pray that the Lord wrap his arms around you And give you comfort and strength.

Merrill Maddox

November 8, 2017

My heart goes out to the family during this difficult time. We grew up together in old Clinton during the 50's and 60's. Many fond memories of Tommy.

Jacque Martin Tharp

November 7, 2017

So sad. The last time I saw Tommy was when we were both buying flowers at Hutto's. His sweet smile and winning personality will be missed.

I graduated in 1963

Melinda Arender

November 7, 2017

So sorry to hear of the loss of Tommy. He was one of a kind. No matter where you saw him you were his best friend. Very Fond Memories.

Melinda Arender

Amy Radcliff

November 7, 2017

Farewell sweet friend. You will be missed. You were a kind, caring and generous friend. Thank you for everything!

FROM THE FAMILY
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