Rufus Earl "Buddy" Norton

Rufus Earl “Buddy” Norton was born October 31, 1941, in Walhalla, South Carolina. Known simply as “Buddy” to generations of family, friends, and coworkers, his life touched a large family and many others through the places he worked, served, coached, worshiped, and called home.

Buddy proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he worked as a lineman. His military service remained an important part of his story and will be honored at his memorial with military honors.

Over the years, Buddy found joy in many of the simple things that made life memorable. He loved being on the water, especially boating and fishing, and he was a Clemson fan. He also had a special affection for the mountains of South and North Carolina a place that became part of many memories over the years.

Buddy also invested portions of his life in serving others. He coached young people through the Berea Youth Association and later served through Celebrate Recovery, encouraging others who were walking through difficult seasons of their own.

Faith was also woven into Buddy's story. He gave his life to Jesus at Washington Avenue Church of God in 1981.. Through the years, his journey with God had different seasons, but his faith became an important part of the final chapters of his life. His story is a reminder that God continues working in a person's life and that restoration, grace, and redemption are possible even after many years have passed.

Buddy was the father of seven children: Donna Norton Cepek and her husband, Bobby; Debbie Norton Oates and her husband, Leldan; DeAnna Norton; Kenneth Norton and his wife, Carla; Tina Roach; Shay Norton and his girlfriend, Daniele Davis; and Tabitha Norton and her boyfriend, Jonathan Crouch.

He also helped raise Cary Cole and Rhonda Reed, who became part of the larger family that grew around him.

Buddy's grandchildren include B.J. Ligon, Michael Cepek, Christy Cepek, Shane Watts, Kacie Capps, Skyler Ashe, Lexie Page, Dustin Simmons, Alex Norton, Chad Norton, Carson Norton, Monica Gosnell, Miki Morris, Lexi Crocker, Chandler Norton, EmmaKate Norton, Annabelle Garza, Klara Crouch, and Delilah Crouch. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren who continue another generation of his family.

He is also survived by Geneva Norton, along with extended family members and friends.

During the final season of his life, Buddy lived with his oldest daughter, Donna, who cared for him and was by his side. Her care became an important part of the closing chapter of his life.

Buddy's life encompassed more than eight decades—years of family, military service, work, friendships, mistakes and successes, laughter and hardship, and ultimately a continuing story of faith and grace. Those who gather to remember him will remember different parts of that story, but together they represent the many chapters of the life of Rufus Earl “Buddy” Norton.

Services will be held at Beech Springs Church, 125 Cooley Bridge Rd., Pelzer, SC 29669 at 11AM on Friday.