Clayton Howell Buoyer died peacefully Friday, June 23, 2023 at the age of 97.
He was born in Raeford on May 8, 1926 to the late John Duncan Buoyer and Sallie Clyde Howell.
During his youth, he found joy in playing baseball and swimming in Rockfish Creek. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served during World War II in Europe. His unit was part of the historic meeting of the Russian Red Army at the Elbe River in Germany. Following his military service, he worked at Raeford Oil, McDonald's Tire Recapping and dedicated many years of his life managing Raeford Salvage Company while also owning and operating Buoyer Bait & Tackle Shop for a period.
He was an active participant in community organizations and local politics. He regularly hosted a rabbit supper at his pond that was popular with N.C. politicians. He had a gift of storytelling and amused his friends at the Wagon Wheel restaurant with his tales and practical jokes. One of his favorite pastimes was fishing at his pond, usually with his signature unlit cigar. He cherished his family and imparted valuable life lessons to them.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 44 years, Janet Cornwell Buoyer, as well as his sisters Katie Margaret Childress, Bennie Lee Melvin, Hattie Marie Sacca, Myrtle Blackmon, and his brother Earl Duncan Buoyer. He is survived by his three children: Lewis Duncan Buoyer (Ellen), Frances McDermott (Paul), and Mary Lynn Larson (Steve), along with eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
The family extends their gratitude to the compassionate and dedicated staff at Open Arms Retirement Center for their cheerful and devoted care of Clayton throughout the years.
A graveside service to honor Clayton's memory will be held at 11:30 am on June 29, 2023 at the Raeford Cemetery. Following the service, the family will receive friends to reminisce and offer condolences.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a gift in memory of Clayton Buoyer to the Raeford-Hoke Museum, PO Box 1383, Raeford NC 28376.
For those who wish to express their condolences online, messages may be shared at www.crumplerfuneralhome.com.