Buford Ray Sr.

Buford Ray, Sr., 101, of 335 W. Fourth Street, Dover, Ohio was born April 18, 1905 in Union Springs (Bullock County), Alabama. He was called home by the “Good Master” on Tuesday, February 20, 2007, while residing at the Country Club Center at Dover.

He was the son of Beauregard and Cornelia (Jackson) Ray and the great grandson of Mary Todd (a former slave) who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by brothers, Seal, Gilbert, Richard (Pat) and Beauregard, Jr. and sisters, Melinda, Cornelia, and Catherine. Surviving sisters are Elizabeth and Julia. Buford confessed Christ at the age of 14 and in 1925 at the age of 20, he moved to Dover. He joined the First Baptist Church of Dover in 1928. On June 26, 1929, he married the former Beatrice Huffman, who survives. Beatrice and Buford had 11 children. Sons Charles, Phillip, Napoleon, and Clabe and daughter Evelyn preceded Buford in death. Surviving children are daughters, Darlene, Catherine, Diana Lynn and sons, Buford, Jr., Richard Rex and Alfonso. Buford was preceded in death by one grandson. 26 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and twelve great great grandchildren survive him. He also leaves behind a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Buford was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Dover where he served for many years as a deacon. He loved God, family, community and gospel music. Several of his favorite songs are “Hold to God�(TM)s Unchanging Hand,” “May the Work I�(TM)ve Done Speak for Me,” “Going up the Rough Side of the Mountain,” and “Amazing Grace.” He was generous with his time and helping those less fortunate than himself.

He was a very grateful man and was always mindful of giving the glory and praise to God for the wonderful life with whom he was blessed. One of his favorite expressions was “Be grateful for the little bit that you have.”

After coming to Dover, Buford worked at the Robinson Clay Co. where he remained an employee for 48 years. For many years, he raised a garden, worked as a barber several days a week, and helped local farmers with their meat cutting operations. Finally, he bagged groceries for some 13 years at the local Buehler�(TM)s grocery store.

Buford lived a long and productive life. He left his family and friends a legacy of faith in God, love for one another and a strong work ethic.

Funeral services celebrating Buford�(TM)s life will be held Monday, February 26, 2007 at 1pm in the First Baptist Church at Dover with Rev. Robert Sherrell officiating. Interment will be in the Dover Burial Park. Friends may call at the church on Sunday from 4-6pm and Monday from noon until 1pm. Those unable to attend or who may wish to express a fond memory of Buford may sign the online register book by visiting the “obituaries” link on the funeral home website at www.tolandherzig.com

The Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory in Dover has been entrusted with Buford�(TM)s funeral arrangements.

Toland-Herzig, Dover
330 343-6132