Rick Buffington, age 49, of Wellston, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, March 13, 2014, at the Holzer Medical Center in Gallipolis, Ohio. He was born November 11, 1964 in Gallipolis, Ohio to Phillip Keith Buffington and Roberta Jeanne Tipton Buffington.
Rick was a 1983 graduate of Wellston High School. He was the maintenance supervisor for the Wellston City School District, where he was employed for 15 years. Rick was also an independent contractor and a former employee of ODOT. He enjoyed playing music and working outside. Rick had a heart of gold; he was a jack of all trades and a master of all.
He is survived by his father, Keith Buffington of Wellston; his wife, Rosie Hill Buffington; step-children, J.T. Leach, Chris Caudill, Kristin Cook and Lacy Cook, all of Wellston and Dana Johnson of Ashland, Kentucky; grandchildren, Kaylee Webb, John Boy Leach, James Johnson and Madison Johnson; sister, Renee Buffington Vickers of Wellston; nieces and nephews, Kristin Buffington of Chillicothe, Shanna Smith of Missouri, Phillip Buffington of Jackson, Tiffany Taylor of Jackson and Tasha Vickers of Wellston; as well as one great-niece, four great-nephews and several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Rick was preceded in death by his mother, Jeanne Buffington; his brother, Randy Buffington; grandparents, Herb and Mildred Tipton and Frank and Jewell Buffington; and his mother-in-law, Jolene Snyder.
In keeping with Rick’s wishes, there will be no funeral service and his body was cremated. A private celebration of his life will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate monetary contributions in Rick’s name be given to the Wellston City Schools, c/o Tami Downard – 1 East Broadway, Wellston, Ohio 45692. Arrangements are under the direction of the McWilliams Funeral Home. Online condolences can be given to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com