Obituary of James Thomas Bufford

Funeral Services for James Thomas “Duke” Bufford of Moscow Mills, MO, formerly of Elsberry, MO, will be held at 6:00 p.m. Saturday, May 6, 2023 at Carter-Ricks Funeral Home in Elsberry, with his son, Danny Torres, officiating. Mr. Bufford, 77, passed away Saturday morning, April 29, 2023, at his home in Moscow Mills. Born September 7, 1945 in Olney, MO, he was the son of Charles Lee and Myrtle Hunter Bufford, Sr. Raised in Elsberry, Duke was a 1965 graduate of Elsberry High School, serving as president his senior year. He was united in marriage on August 1, 1974 in Moscow Mills to Bonnie Jo Eppard. He worked for many years as an over-the-road trucker and as a car hauler. He drove for Cisco Trucking and Allied Car Hauling. He was a member of the Teamster’s Local No. 604, in St. Louis. Duke was a long-time member and past Master of New Hope Lodge #199, A.F.&A.M. in Elsberry, MO. He served as the Masons representative to the Elsberry Public Library Board for several years. Duke enjoyed woodworking and made many custom items for family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie Bufford, Sr. and Myrtle Ellis; and one brother, Charles Bufford, Jr. Survivors include his beloved wife of almost 48 years, Bonnie Bufford of Moscow Mills; two sons: Danny Torres and his wife, Senida, of Georgia, and David Torres and his wife, Karen, of California; daughter, Linda Rowland of Missouri; nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He also leaves one sister, Edith Williamson of O’Fallon, MO; one brother, Gregory Bufford and his wife, Delores, of Elsberry; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. until time of the Service at 6:00 p.m. Saturday, May 6, 2023 at Carter-Ricks Funeral Home in Elsberry. Masonic Service will be held at 5:30 p.m. Memorials may be made to Shriner’s Hospital in care of Carter-Ricks Funeral Home, 107 S. 5th Street; Elsberry, MO 63343.