I grew up down the street from the Buffenbargers. Years later, when I met my husband, I learned that my husband and Jim played basketball together. Whenever we went to Regal for a date night and saw Jim, he would take time to talk to us. He was always so kind and we are both sorry to hear of his passing. 

My first memory did not post. So I am doing this second time. 
Great guy, great guy, great friend, greZat boss! I was his assistant at Southtown in 1978 and he taught so much ! Probably the best time of my life! Buff,
Love you man! You at peace! God bless you!

In 1976 I applied for a job at Southtown Cinemas with my high school boy friend who always wanted to work at a movie theater. We both interviewed with the boss but I was the one who got the call back! It was a great first job and the right environment to help a shy kid gain some confidence. Mr. Buffenbarger (later "Buff" when I was less scared) was the perfect first boss and I learned a lot about managing a team by watching him. He made work fun and kept morale high while running an efficient operation -  no easy task with a staff of high school and college kids! Thinking about those days makes me smile.  I was also blessed enough to have worked with Diane at Glenbrook . My prayers go out to you, Diane and your beautiful family at this difficult time. How fortunate you were to find each other...

The Buffenbargers were amazing neighbors of mine growing up! Jim and Diane gave me my first job as a babysitter to Cole and Mallory. Jim was always so friendly when I saw him at the movie theater also. Remember the first time that I babysat Cole and Mallory? I accidentally locked us out of the house! Lol! Jim was very understanding. He was a great person and will leave such great memories.

I remember Mr. Buffebarger helping me when my mom was sick and getting worse. I went to work and he asked what I was doing coming in when my mom was in the hospital. He told me he appreciated me thinking of the company but she was more important and then took me all the way to Lutheran hospital to see her. I will never forget that, I'm going to really miss him. My condolences to the family.

Jim spent his life always caring more for others than he cared for himself.  His 'Tom Selleck' smile, child-like laugh, and friendly nature will be missed, but memories will endure.

My husband Dave and I met Jim through my friendship with his wonderful wife Diane .   Was a bridesmaid in their wedding and there for them after the birth of their children.  I continue to have a cherished friendship today.   My heart breaks for you Diane , Cole , Mallory and Toby .   You are all in our prayers.  Hoping you can find peace in knowing Jim is no longer suffering .  Please let me know what I can do to help you.  I’m still a great listener .  Love you all !  

One of the world’s true gentlemen.  I never has a conversation with ‘Buff’ that didn’t result in me being in a better mood when it ended than when it began.  As a husband, father, and friend he had few equals.  The world is a little darker place today with Buff’s departure, but I take comfort knowing that he journeys to a far better place... and even there the destination will be that much better upon his arrival.  Thankful for every memory I hold.
- Scott A. Sproat

Diane, and Kids
Sending the warmest hugs I can with lots of love. 
I am so blessed to have met Jim and his family and share some of their life. 
I’ll keep you all in my prayers. 
Love, Kayla Loe

I remember Buff,  my cousin Brian and my brother Jim playing basketball in the driveway when I was young. Buff gave me my first job at General Cinemas when I was still in school. I became  his assistant manager at Glenbrook. I cherish the knowledge he gave me and how he helped me succeed in my career. Will always love him.

Buff and I have been friends way back to our Belle Vista days. I have great memories playing basketball with him.  Buff also hired me as an usher at Southtown Cinemas and started my career in theatre management. He had such an influence on my life which I will be forever grateful. I will miss him and will always love him.

When I was  a little girl my Uncle Jim took me to the toy store to pick out ANY gift I wanted.  We went to one of the toy stores in Southtown Mall.  I don't remember what I chose but I remembered how special I felt to have this time with my Uncle.  My Uncle Jim was always quick to smile and always had a hug for me.  He has a special place in my heart. 

Buff was one of my all time favorite bosses, as well as a great friend. He was the first to take a chance & promote me to a management position, almost 35 years ago, and there are things he taught me that I still use to this day. He will be missed by so many!

Managed Southtown Cinema and was in same Divisions (Columbus and Detroit) with Jim. He was a very nice guy.  


Jim and I were friends for 40 years. He changed my life in many ways.  He loved his family and had an enormous number of friends. I will miss him but the fantastic good-time memories are eternal, like his smiling spirit.  A great inspiration to so many.

OBITUARY

James "Buff" A. Buffenbarger

18 March, 1955 – 10 September, 2020

D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Pine Valley

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