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Michael Buxton Obituary
Portsmouth - Dr. Michael Jay Buxton, 61, died in a plane crash in Norfolk, Virginia on Wednesday, March 4, 2015. Mike was a licensed clinical psychologist who practiced for many years in Virginia Beach, Virginia. A New Yorker by birth, Mike was born on April 15, 1953 in Buffalo, New York to the late June Lighty Buxton and Arthur Richmond Buxton and was raised in the Town of Tonawanda. Mike completed his undergraduate degree at Canisius College in 1975 before pursuing a master's degree at Syracuse University. Mike worked as a school psychologist with Virginia Beach City Public Schools in the early 1980s. He completed his doctorate at the College of William & Mary in 1986 and then entered private practice with a specialty in child psychology. Dedicated to his patients, Mike was a vocal advocate for the rights of children with special needs and military families. Locally, he was active in the Republican Party and with many other community causes. Mike was also involved in a number of other business and real estate ventures over the years including being the president of L&M Aviation Corp. and Buxton Construction Corp.
Mike was an avid sailor, scuba diver, skier, pilot and all-around adventurer, who maintained close ties with family and boyhood friends from his former hometown. There was never a dull moment with Mike he made new friends wherever he went with his gregarious and fun-loving personality and could regale a crowd with the tales of his many adventures. Mike pursued his love of flying for nearly 40 years. He was an instrument-rated pilot of both single and twin-engine planes and served as the Governor of the Quiet Birdman, a national aviator group. Mike died doing what he loved. Two of his childhood friends, Ted Reinhardt and Bill Shaver of western New York, also perished in the accident. The three men will be greatly missed by friends and family around the country.
Mike is survived by two children, Stephanie M. Buxton and James M. Buxton of Virginia Beach; his sister Melissa B. Helwig and her husband John Helwig; nephews William Helwig, Michael Helwig, Robert Helwig; and a niece, Grace Helwig of Kenmore, New York along with many other extended family members in the Buffalo area. Mike is also survived by his life partner, Deborah Childs; their daughters Yvonne Smiley and husband Drew, Amy Blide and husband Michael, and Jamie Childs; and their grandchildren, Edward, Sean, Leila and Ameliana. Mike was predeceased by his parents and elder brother, Arthur R. Buxton, Jr.
The family will receive friends at Bayside Presbyterian Church on Sunday, March 8, 2015 from 2 to 3 p.m. The memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday in the church sanctuary by Rev. Dr. David Rollins followed by a reception. Arrangements are by Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Bayside Chapel. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Buxton
Sponsored by the family.
Joy
April 29, 2015
So sorry to hear about Dr. Buxton,even though I didn't have the pleasure of knowing him that good personally,I know he will be missed. He is on to his next aventure...
lynn callahan
April 17, 2015
Lighting your way in enchanted forest
Diana DeBoe
March 14, 2015
Dear family of Michael, Without an address, I am forced to use this form to send all of you my love and prayers. Michael and I worked at Beach Montessori.He was a very wise and warm colleague,with particular insight into troubled children.His belief in change and growth were refreshing.His manner was relaxed, confident, and friendly. His sense of humor was sharp yet gentle.
Trusting in God's goodness and grace, Diana DeBoe
Tracey Bracey-Smith
March 10, 2015
A true Angel!!! Dr.buxton was a man with a heart of Gold!! He was the first Doctor to diagnose my son Treaquan with ADHD. Fought norfolk public schools for my son to go to a diverse school and get a better education. I thank you for that !!!! He was a kind, trustworthy man and my children loved him. To hear of his passing , left us heartbreaking. Treaquan offen talked about going fishing on his boat. And he looked foreword to his trips to 7-11 after his session.. Dr. Buxton loved his patients, fishing, flying,politics, and just an all around Great guy. You will solely be missed. But we will cherish your name and our therapy sessions!!! God rest your soul!!!! My condolences to you family and friends.....
Sara Eder
March 10, 2015
You will never be forgotten and we will always remember all you have taught us.
Karen Hatfield
March 10, 2015
I worked with Mike when I first moved to this area in 1985. He was dedicated to his profession and always had the best interest of the child at heart. We became friends over the years and he was a true friend. Mike you are missed dearly and the children you worked for have lost a true advocate. Heaven has gained another angel. My condolences go out to his family and friends.
Margaret, Randy & Ronnie Lacher
March 9, 2015
Dr. Buxton was our son's first therapist and was instrumental in getting him diagnosed with Autism and ADHD. He was always our son's #1 supporter and went to bat for him anytime we needed his help when Ronnie was having problems in preschool. He marveled at Ronnie's intelligence at the tender age of 3 and we'll never forget how he taught Ronnie to walk "heel/toe" on several trips to the 7-11 by his office :) My husband often said, "We should stop by Dr. Buxton's office to show him how big Ronnie is now and tell him how well he's doing all these years later." Unfortunately, we never took the time to do this and we'll never get the opportunity to do so. Dr. Buxton's passing has really left me with a heavy heart and I'd like for his family to know that he had such lasting impact on our family and that he will definitely not be forgotten.
Kelly Gray
March 9, 2015
Debbie, I am so sorry for your loss. I only just realized that I met Michael once years ago at your parents' house when Eddie came to visit. You seemed so happy and I was happy for you. May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared, comfort you now and in the days ahead.
jessie nienstedt
March 8, 2015
Sorry to the family Rip Dr.Buxton
Theresa Roche
March 8, 2015
Dr. Buxton is and was a wonderful man with a huge heart. He has helped my family in more ways than anyone could comprehend. We have all shed tears for the loss. But we will always have our memories and hear his advice in our memories and hearts. He will never be forgotten. I apologize for being unable to attend services. Many prayers and loving arms to family and friends.
Jerri Falvey
March 8, 2015
Michael was a life saver for our family. I met him in a restaurant, where i worked, and talked to him about my grandson. We had tried for 2 years to get him back from a stepfather. The judges in the judicial system just kept passing the case on and on. Finally Michael went to court and the judge listened. He was a great man who really cared. Some of my other grandkids saw him also. They all loved him! RIP Micheal, you helped so many and were really loved for it. My condolences to your loved ones and all of your family.
kathy mobley
March 7, 2015
My grandson saw Dr.Mike and they had that special connection. He will surely be missed. You and your friends and family will be in our prayers. RIP♡
mike cronin
March 7, 2015
Dr. Mike not only was my doctor, he was my friend. He has helped me and my daughter,Carlie for years. I don't know what I am going to do without him. He is and will be truly missed by us. I must go on with the tools he has taught me to use. He was a very intellegent man. God has a special place for you Mike. We will continue our sessions one day. RIP Your friends Mike and Carlie.
John Garris
March 7, 2015
Met Buxton in 94" after waking up from a coma with 3 fractures to the skull. He showed me a list of emotions and asked me to pick two which I picked helpless and hopeless. He appeared in court when the 3 individuals who attacked me were tried. I shook his hand right in the court room. Over the years we spent a lot of time together in sessions and Neurofeedback. He shared life stories with me, took a lot of notes, usually ended the session with a good deal. He was always upbeat not too much upset him and was known to chuckle. I miss him, not being able to call him and knowing he is not here anymore is a very painful lose.
March 7, 2015
Dr. Buxton was a voice of reassurance during struggling times. I know he will be missed by many families!
The Clark family
tracy Carroll/Clark
March 7, 2015
Forever in our hearts,,, Rest in paradise Mike,,, Now you are one of our angels. Tracy Carroll
Pic Mike sent from runway came through March 3rd at 11:20 pm
Lee Williams
March 7, 2015
Pic Mike sent me overlooking Orlando from plane window
Lee Williams
March 7, 2015
John Garris
March 7, 2015
Met Buxton in 94' after waking up from a coma with 3 fractures to the skull. He appeared in court when the 3 individuals who attacked me were tried. Many sessions with with him over the years and neurofeedback. He shared several life stories, always was upbeat and cheerful. Really going to miss him and I am sure to everybody who knew him this a very painful lose.
Dierich Doerp
March 7, 2015
My condolences to Mike's family and long time partner Debbie. I will have Mike always in good memory, when we went together on many flying, skiing and scuper diving ventures. All of these ventures had risks involved. it takes only one unlucky moment in life. I shall remember Mike for the many good times we had together. Love you man.....your friend Dietrich from Vietnam
Victor and Margi Pisone
March 6, 2015
Mike was a long time friend to us since the mid 70's. We were both transplants form the north with similar kindred spirits. We shared many happy experiences sailing, travel, spending time with his family, and having many spirited conversations. Mike was smart. There was no endeavor that he took on that he couldn't master. He always stood firm in his convictions and beliefs and never retreated. He always had a way of bringing out your best qualities and making you feel special. I guess that is why he was so good in helping people through his profession. He was our friend, confidant and inspiration. Even if some time passed where we didn't communicate, it was always nice to know, Mike, our long time friend was out there. For that very reason, our friend , you will be greatly missed.
Dani Ingersoll
March 6, 2015
I am so very sorry to learn of the terrible accident that took the lives of Mike, Teddy and Billy. I grew up a few houses from Mike and Melissa. I extend my heartfelt condolences to Mike's family, patients and friends. God Speed Mike. Fly high!
Sara Eder
March 6, 2015
Dr. Buxton, We still cannot believe what happened and I think in a lot of ways we are still in shock. You were my children's therapist for 2 x a week for roughly 2 years and I realize that you were also one of my very good friends. You will truly be missed!
The Jones
March 6, 2015
The world was made a better place by Dr. Buxton, from his personality to his expertise. It's a little worse off now that he's left to sail on the big sea in the sky. I've never known any other professional to be so generous with his time, & not for billing purposes either, & who never stopped learning about anything & everything. You were one of a kind, Mike, & you went out with your boots on.
Jen Orr Purnell
March 6, 2015
RIP my rock & cherished friend. Hunter, Carter, & I will never be the same without your presence in our life. I only hope I can raise these boys in the way you would have wanted & would be proud. I don't know how I am going to do it without your steadfast guidance.
March 6, 2015
Michael,Dr.Mike like alot of his friends called him, was a happy, intelligent, and very caring person. He loved life and everything good it had to offer. You will be missed my friend.Jonathan Epstein
Cathy Wolford, Esquire
March 6, 2015
Worked with Dr. Mike on a couple of cases pretty closely. He was definitely the type of person who never met a stranger. So sorry to hear of his passing but I can't help thinking this is the type of way he would have wanted to go---doing what he loved!
Kelly Black
March 6, 2015
Dr. Buxton, we miss you so much already! While we are devastated, we know it was your time to go and you're in a better place. You helped the boys and I so much and we'll never be able to find someone to replace you. You were a blessing to so many families and you truly cared about people. Last Monday you told us you could see us this Monday but it would have to be in Key West. We all laughed and joked and said sure, we'll see you there. I admired you for playing just as hard as you worked. You lived life to the fullest and did what you loved. Cade wants you to know he made the football team and Cory soldered his first item at school. I know you are very proud of them and watching from above. We are also grieving for your loved ones. I cannot imagine the devastation they are feeling. You loved Debbie and her kids and grandkids like they were your own. I know your children are heart broken as well. Your last text to me said "good things come to those who wait", and you're right - we will have to wait to see you in heaven.
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