Buford H. King

Buford King of Mary Esther, Fla., went home to be with the Lord on Jan. 5, 2012.

Born in Tennessee, Buford led a life of fun and adventure. During his early years he worked at the Johnson City Golf Course. After high school he joined the U.S. Air Force and traveled the world. He performed search and rescue missions in Alaska, saving the lives of others or bringing the deceased home to their loved ones. He was a member of the Pacific Air Forces, providing offensive and defensive units in Southeast Asia, the Far East, and the Pacific. He was a veteran of the Korean War and played a vital role in a record-setting airlift in Vietnam.

Buford married the love of his life, Anna, in 1954. Anna embraced her life as an Air Force wife and traveled the globe with Buford. Together they raised three wonderful children.

After 23 years of faithful service to his country, Buford retired from the Air Force and became a charter boat captain in Destin. Upon retiring from the fishing industry, Buford returned to playing golf, which he enjoyed as a lifelong pursuit.

Buford was a Master Mason and member of Hillcrest Lodge No. 397; Scottish Rite Republic of the Philippines; American Legion Post 235; the Elks; Veterans of Foreign Wars; and Disabled American Veterans. He was also a Lifetime Member of the PGA Partners Club, and the U.S. Golf Association.

Buford was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Gladys King; and brother, Andrew. He is survived by his loving wife, Anna, who was at his side until the end; and his children, Sherry (Stephen) Bowles, Michael (Sharon) King, and Cara (Donald) House. Buford's siblings include Bill (Ollie) King, Joann (Robert) Ginley, Shelby Orten, Douglas (Patricia) King, and Dean (Linda) King. Grandchildren include Amie (Jason) Urban; Christin (Terry) Stephens; Michael (Brandy) King; and Dyllan, Justice and Savannah House. He had one great-grandchild, Cayleigh Stephens.

Special thanks to the Rev. Charles Walker, the Rev. Steve Winton, Chaplain Dolan, Regency Hospice, Roshell Grimes, Chuck Hutchins, Dr. John Chaney, Dr. Rodney Powell, Dr. Maggie Shuler and Dr. James Wilson.

Buford will be greatly missed by his family and friends and all whose life he touched. A celebration of life will be held on Feb. 11 at 2 p.m. at the American Legion, 105 Hollywood Blvd., Fort Walton Beach, Fla. All family and friends are invited. Per his final wishes, Buford will be laid to rest in the Gulf of Mexico.