Jessie D Buffington

Jessie Doyle Buffington, (Buff) was born to Ennis and Ethel Buffington, November 25, 1932 in Rome, Georgia where he lived until passing away peacefully in his home surrounded by family and friends. Buff was one of seven children. His father was a farmer and mother, a devoted homemaker, wife and professionally an LPN.

Buff married the love of his life, Donna June Crider on his 29th birthday in 1961. They made the perfect power couple, and Buff often joked that June was the highest paid secretary in Rome. With a humble start they began developing land at Lake Weiss in Cherokee County, Alabama. Without knowing it, his love of the lake and land would bring him his greatest personal reward and this love was marked by building the perfect lakefront compound for his family with his own hands. Later, Buff and June extended their real estate acumen to Rome, GA and found joy in developing property and created residential communities that now hundreds call home.

Buff never met a stranger, and his strong business exterior was balanced by that of a benevolent and empathetic southern gentleman. He was always there to give counsel to those struggling and had a reputation for unfettered generosity.

He respected the reward found in a hard day’s work. He proudly served his country as an officer in the U.S. Air Force. He retired from the Inland Corporation after 35 years of loyal service, honored with a 100% safety service record and received accommodation from the Rome Home Builders Association, he was an original shareholder in First National Community Bank, Rome, GA and founder of Buffington Enterprises.

A true family man, Buff and June raised two children of their own and two grandchildren. They respected diversity and created a faith-based household. Patience was a guiding force for the family and Buff reflected that until his last day.

In his final years, following the passing of his beloved June, Buff found pleasure in a simple life which always seemed to suit him. He loved football, classic cars, Nascar, a great steak, and a margarita from time to time. Often, simple enough, the sun on his face, the taste of a banana split shared with a good friend or that of a cigar was enough of a reward at day’s end. Buff never had anything to prove, and his reputation preceded him. His legacy is one of service, integrity and a true love of his community. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him - God speed.

He is survived by sisters, Karen Farrell (Jim), Faye Dunlap and brother, Harrold Buffington. Son, Gregory Buffington Renfroe, (Charles) and Daughter, Donna Janiece Sanders. Grandchildren, Whitney Sanders, (Kemper), Spencer Sanders, (Brii), Great Grandchildren, Julian (Bubba) Fetterman and Spencer James Sanders. Nephew, David Braden, (Misty), Great Nephew David Braden Jr., Great Niece, Anna Grace Braden and special friend and sister to all, Sara Hill.

The family wishes to give special thanks to the wonderful care givers, Diann Richardson and Ressie Law. Extended thanks go to Heyman Hospice for their help and providing dignity in the end to Mr. Buffington.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Weiss Lake Improvement Association, P.O. Box, 565 Centre, AL 35960

A Memorial service will be held March 1, 2025 at 10am, Calvary Baptist Church, 101 Broadus Rd. NE, Rome, GA 30161.

Daniel’s Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to assist the family of Jessie Buffington with this announcement.