Brenda Joyce Buff, 81, of Morganton, went home to meet her Lord and Savior on Saturday, February 1, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on May 16, 1943 in Rockingham County, NC, Brenda was the daughter of the late Earl Wilson Joyce and Mary Frances Montgomery Joyce.
In addition to her parents, Brenda was preceded in passing by her infant grandson, Christopher Jordan Rhoney; and a brother-in-law, Ted Blanton.
A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, Brenda is survived by her loving husband of nearly 63 years, Douglas Buff of Morganton. She is also survived by her four dear children whom she was proud of, Tammy McNabb (Lane), Tara Rhoney (Tommy) of Morganton, Todd Buff (Diane) of Cary, NC, Tron Buff of Lenoir and her beloved grandson, Alex Rhoney. Also surviving are her two sisters, Earlene Beach (John) of Morganton and Patty Blanton of Valdese.
Brenda retired from Burke County Public Schools after 31 years of service. Mrs. Buff worked in the office of Drexel Elementary School, supporting each principal, assisting staff, and connecting with the students and parents of the Drexel community.
After retirement, Brenda enjoyed traveling and antiquing with her two daughters, tending to her many beautiful flowers, and watching NC State athletics with her husband, even to her grandson’s dispute. Her home was always beautifully decorated especially during the holidays. She was an amazing cook, and loved spending time in her kitchen, crafting delicious meals for her family. Holidays and family gatherings will not be the same without her. She will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. She will live on in the hearts of her family forever.
The family would like to thank Dr. Colin Curran and the dedicated staff at Carolina Oncology Specialists. During her visits and treatments there, three special angels touched Brenda’s heart with their bright smiles and compassion: Jennifer, Ashley, and Amanda. The family would like to thank the committed doctors and 2nd floor staff at Frye Hospital who showed such kindness to Brenda and her family during the past three weeks. Likewise, we sincerely appreciate the Frye Oncology Team and Carolina Caring/Palliative Care for their assistance and empathy throughout this difficult journey.
The family will receive friends Thursday February 6, 2025 from 6:00-8:00 P.M. at Heritage Funeral Service in Valdese.
A Private Family Graveside Service will be held on Friday February 7, 2025 at Burke Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Jimmy V Foundation, 14600 Weston Parkway, Cary, NC 27513 or the Carolina Caring Foundation, 3975 Robinson Rd. Newton, NC 28658.
Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory of Valdese is serving the family.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of the family.
Donna Joyce Ellis
Dearest family, I am so sorry for your loss. Brenda, loved her family dearly. She was a wonderful lady. The last time I got to be with her was at Tammy’s birthday party. I so enjoyed just sitting there catching up. I still say prettiest head of hair in Morganton. Lovely lady.❤️ Lee sends his love and prayers to all.
We are sending love and prayers to her family. Bob and Crystal Donley
I’m so sorry for your loss!! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Lisa S. Greene
What a shock to all her MHS classmates. We did not know. Our prayers go out to the family . We will miss her so much at our MHS Class of ’61 monthly lunches. I can still see her sweet smile and hear her laughter. God has another angel. Rest in peace, Sweet Brenda.
Our prayers and thought are with all of you. May the stars shin bright every night as she watches over you. Reunited with her mama and daddy and so many other family members. We live you and treasure the many memories we got to share together
Tara, Tammy and Family, My heart and prayers are with you as you celebrate your mother’s life and adjust to her home going. May your treasure of memories bring you comfort and our Heavenly Father console you with His holy hand.