Gary Rex Buxton

A Life Well Lived

Our beloved father, grandfather, husband, and dear friend, Gary Rex Buxton, peacefully returned to his Heavenly home while residing in Kaysville, Utah, after a brave battle with Parkinson’s disease. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but also a legacy of love, kindness, integrity, and joy that will never be forgotten.

Gary was born on September 9, 1949, in Lewiston, Utah, to Alfred Henry Buxton and Bernice Brian. With a spirit as sturdy and warm as the brickwork he cherished, he spent his childhood working beside his father and brothers in their construction business—developing not just his craft, but a love for creating beauty with his bare hands. His passion for hard work showed in everything he touched, especially the fireplaces and brick projects that became treasured landmarks across Utah.

He later founded and operated Buxton Masonry, Inc., a company renowned for excellence and craftsmanship. Gary’s integrity, honesty, and steadfast character were the foundation of his success. These qualities, along with his gift for making and keeping friends, and his ability to uplift and build others—are why his business thrived and remains one of the most respected masonry companies in Utah to this day.

Graduating from Ben Lomond High School in 1967, Gary’s journey took him to Australia on a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he made lifelong friendships that meant the world to him. In September 1971, he married Pamela Rentmeister, with whom he shared three children and many memorable years. Later in life, his loving heart found companionship once again with Diane Payne Bitaraf, whom he married in November 2018, forever grateful for her presence in his life.

Gary’s faith was the anchor of his life. He served diligently in numerous callings within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including high council member, bishopric member, elders quorum president, Young Men president, and his most loved—Sunday School teacher to the youth.

His gentle guidance, infectious smile, and homemade cookies every Sunday became treasured traditions that touched many lives. His legendary chocolate chip cookies, baked with love and shared freely, became a symbol of his generosity and warmth. Sacred memories abound of baking alongside his grandchildren, passing down his love of life and good humor through these sweet moments.

Gary’s creativity extended far beyond his craftsmanship. He loved boating, aviation, old Jaguars, and horse shows, always embracing life’s adventures with his signature joy. He was often seen dancing on the bow of the boat to Merle Haggard or enjoying a favorite chocolate shake from Baskin-Robbins.

His zest for life, combined with his unwavering integrity, warmth, and positivity, drew people toward him effortlessly. He had an extraordinary gift for making friends and lifting people up, building them with kindness and encouragement. His life was a testament to the power of love and genuine connection.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, yet his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he loved most.

He leaves behind his devoted wife, Diane; his children, Tyler (Cheri) Buxton, Tami (Buddy) Millett, and Megan (Trevor) Fritzsche; and his stepchildren, Burke (Jess) Bitaraf, Tori (Jared) Allen, and Bronte (Charles) Greenwald.

His legacy continues through his 16 grandchildren (with one on the way), a great-grandchild, his siblings Darrell Buxton, Gregg (Kelley) Buxton, Susan (Kent) Allen, and Carol (Terry) Semrow, and the many lives he touched.

Funeral services will be held Monday November 17, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Kaysville Stake Center, 270 W. Burton Lane, Kaysville, Utah. Family and friends may visit Sunday November 16 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary, 1867 N. Fairfield Rd., Layton, Utah and Monday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church.

Interment will be held at the Kaysville City Cemetery.

With heartfelt appreciations, the family extends their gratitude to the many caring hands that lovingly tended to Gary and supported them during this tender time.

Gary’s love. his spirit of adventure, his legendary cookies and the kindness he shared will be forever etched into our hearts. His presence in our lives was a blessing – one we'll cherish always.

The funeral service will be live-streamed and may be viewed by scrolling to the bottom of Gary’s obituary page at www.lindquistmortuary.com