Buford William York

Buford William York, formerly of Willis, Texas, passed away August 10, 2019, in Conroe at the age of 88. Graveside services were held August 13 at Lake Chapel Cemetery near Fairfield, with Judge Ray Jones of Mexia officiating.

Buford was born May 4, 1931 in Fairfield to Albert and Rena Ivy York.

Buford grew up in the Ward Prairie community, where he attended school until that school consolidated with Fairfield. He then attended school in Fairfield.

Buford was employed at Ethel Corporation near Houston, before operating Woody’s Restaurant in Fairfield and a steakhouse in Mexia. He later became a long-distance truck driver, travelling all across the United States from New York to California, until he retired.

He enjoyed deep sea fishing and would bring the catch home to serve at the restaurant. He enjoyed rodeos and watching bull riding, his favorite. In later years, when it was on TV, he wasn’t about to miss that and wrestling.

Buford married Anna Lou Smith of Teague in 1950 and they were parents of Neal, Dale, and Connie.

Later, Buford married Hazel Moore and they were parents of Brent, who died as a toddler in a tragic car accident.

Lastly, Buford married Teresa Garner and they were parents of Jon Eric. Her son Louis Garner was a small child when they married, and has been a close member of the York family.

Buford loved spending time with his family, but like most grandfathers, time spent with his grandchildren was extra special. He liked to spend time fellowshipping with others and telling jokes and stories. He had a contagious laugh and a gleam in his eye, whether telling or listening to stories.

Buford was preceded in death by his parents, Albert York and Rena Ivy York, his wife Teresa Gardner York, infant brother James Everett York, his sister and brother-inlaw Janell York and Joe Fryer, sons, Neal, Dale, and Brent York.

Buford is survived by two sons: Jon Eric York and wife Crystal of Conroe, and Louis Garner and wife Lori of Mexia, his daughter Connie, one brother Jerry York and wife Sandy of Canton, four nieces Patsy Fryer Day, Sharon Fryer Watson, Deidra York Hufnagel, and Debbie York. His grandchildren are Heather York, Faith York, Jerian Garner, Sarah Garner-Bonner, Kevin Robertson, Adam York, Michael York, Lori York, Connor Ross, Joshua Ross, Maddyson Ross, and numerous great-grandchildren.