Esker Diane Buford, 80, of Ardmore, Tennessee, passed from this world on Monday, October 20, 2026, at home surrounded by her family.
She was born on December 3, 1945, to Comer Maddox and Mary Virgie Mullins Maddox.
She was a member of Bradshaw Baptist Church and served as a Pastor’s wife for many years.
Diane was a devoted wife of 60 years to Mickey and a loving mother to her three sons, Dwayne (Donna) Buford, Darren (Cassie) Buford of Ardmore, Tennessee, and Derrick (Peter) Buford of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Her family was one of God’s greatest blessings to her. She loved them deeply and faithfully, and her life was marked by sacrifices she made, the care she gave, and the love she shared. Through her words and actions, she showed her family the importance of faith, kindness, and putting others before herself.
One of Diane’s greatest joys was being a grandmother. She was a proud grandmother to Ashley Blankenship, Adam (Lydia) Buford, Dakota (Logan) Buford, and BriAnn (Houston)Buford-Howard. Her love extended to her four great-grandchildren Adalyn, Avaleigh, Clinton and Hawthorn. One precious great-great-grandchild, Daniel will carry forward the family legacy she treasured so dearly.
Diane was preceded in death by her father, Comer Maddox, mother, Virgie Mullins Maddox, two sisters: Glenda Fay Pepper, and Betty Levier. She is survived by her brother David (Linda) Maddox.
Though her earthly journey has come to an end, her family finds comfort in knowing that her life was rooted in a faith that promises something far greater than this world. Jesus tells us in John 14:2-3 that “He has prepared a place for his children”. This promise brings peace during sorrow and hope in the assurance of eternal life. While Diane will be greatly missed, her loved ones can take comfort in the promise of a joyful reunion one day in Heaven
A visitation will be held at Ardmore Chapel Funeral Home on Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM. A Chapel Service will follow at 1:00 PM. She will be laid to rest at Gatlin Cemetery located in Ardmore, Alabama Bro. Jeff Bennett and Bro. Eddie Clardy will officiate the service.
Ardmore Chapel is assisting the family with services.
