William "Bill" Ray Buxton

William Bill Ray Buxton of Farmington passed away Friday July 30, 2010 at his residence at the age of 77 years. He was born March 24, 1933 at St. Louis, son of the late Leo and Laura (Rohan) Buxton. He was also preceded in death by three brothers, Jim, Harry and Lonnie Buxton. Bill proudly served his country during the Korean War in the US Navy. After being discharged from the Navy, Bill worked as a mechanic in the St. Louis and Fredericktown areas, retiring from Pense Brothers Drilling in Fredericktown in 1990. In his spare time Bill painted, sketched, and did woodcarving, and became a very talented, award winning artist. Bill was a faithful member of Life Church of Farmington, where he worshiped his Lord for the past 21 years. Bill will be missed by all those who knew and loved him, which includes his wife of 21 years, Shirley Hess Buxton of Farmington, two daughters, Diana Springer (Ronald) of Arnold and Linda Smith (Larry) of Arnold, one step-son Michael Hess (Amy) of Sapulpa, OK, a special cousin Finis Buxton of Farmington, eleven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends as well as his church family. Friends may call from 2-3 p.m. at Cozean Memorial Chapel on Sunday August 1st, 2010. A funeral service will follow at 3 p.m. with Reverend Leon Miller officiating. Bill will be laid to rest with full Military Honors at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at a later date. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. View Tribute Video and share your condolences and memories at cozean.biz