Richard Buyer

Dr. Richard Buyer MD, 86, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away on February 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 14, 1939, in Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Buyer was the beloved son of the late Morris and Anne Buyer and the devoted brother of the late Dennis Buyer.

Dr. Buyer was a loving husband to the late Andrea Buyer Cohen and the late Kristin Lazarian Buyer, and a proud father to Paul Buyer (April Robinson Buyer), Jason Buyer, and Kennedy Buyer Brooks (Jena Brooks). He cherished his grandchildren, Lily Buyer, Josie Buyer, and Jackson Buyer. Preceded in death by his parents, his wives, and his brother, he is survived by his three children and three grandchildren, who were the biggest joys of his life.

Dr. Buyer attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he pursued studies in medicine, laying the foundation for a prominent 40+ year medical career. He dedicated himself to his patients, advocating on their behalf and treating each person with compassion, respect, and dignity. A proud veteran of the Army, Dr. Buyer served as a physician during the Vietnam War.

While having many professional accomplishments, his greatest pride and joy was always his family. He had a gift for storytelling, inspiring him to become a two-time author and public speaker, whether addressing a crowd at his daughter’s school or sharing reflections years later at his residence, The Forum at Tucson. As a young man, Dr. Buyer developed a profound interest in President John F. Kennedy. Sitting in the front row during one of JFK’s campaign speeches left a lasting impression and sparked a lifelong passion for studying the president and the events surrounding his assassination, leading to publishing his first book, Why the JFK Assassination Still Matters. His curiosity continued throughout his life, with a love of reading, research, writing, and meaningful conversation.

Dr. Buyer found joy in life’s simple pleasures: hitting golf balls at the driving range, writing books in his study, and engaging in spirited discussions about the things he cared about most. An avid sports fan, he loved watching games from his favorite red recliner, especially when the Chicago Cubs were playing. Above all, he was his family’s biggest cheerleader; always proud, supportive and encouraging. Falling in love with the mountains and warm weather of Tucson, Dr. Buyer and his late wife Kris moved there to enjoy its vibrant desert community. After her passing, Dr. Buyer lived in several places, but eventually returned to Tucson to spend the rest of his years surrounded by the city and community he cherished.

Those who knew Dr. Buyer will always remember his warm smile, unlimited support, and generous heart. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered as his legacy lives on.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, March 13, at East Lawn Cemetery, 5801 E. Grant Street, Tucson, Arizona 85712. Visitation in the chapel at 10 AM, Chapel service at 11 AM, Burial service at 12 PM, with a reception immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to two charities in Dr. Buyer’s name that meant the most to him:

The Immune Deficiency Foundation for research of his late wife, Kris’ disease and St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.