Curtis Buxton

(From Parker Mortuary)

Curtis Allen Buxton, 59, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away Thursday, May 26, 2016, at his home after a nine-month battle with cancer. He was born on July 29, 1956, in Carthage, Missouri to J.O. Buxton and Jerri (Sharp) Buxton of Joplin. He married the love of his life, Ruth Lynell Shaw, on November 1, 1975, in Joplin at College Heights Christian Church.

Curtis worked for Eagle Pitcher for twenty years before joining MO DOT of Carthage for seventeen years, where he was known for finding random things, especially money, on the side of the road, being a leader, and a brother. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a graduate of Carthage High School, class of 1974. He was a volunteer manager of his sons' baseball teams (Webb City), basketball teams (Carterville Gym), YMCA Football League, and Carterville Christian Church's Feed the Heart.

He is survived by his wife, two sons and their wives (Christopher Allen and Tara Lynn Buxton of Carl Junction, Bradlee Curtis and Amanda Marie Buxton of Joplin), a beloved granddaughter, Annabella Marie Buxton (who stole his heart the second before he stole her out of the hospital bassinet), an unborn grandson due in October, an unborn grandchild due in January, as well as Skyler Ashton Cotton, Benjamin Tyler Starkey and Ben's unborn brother due in August who Curt was a "Poppy" to all. He is also survived by his mother, father, and brother, Steven Vance Buxton.

Curtis was known for walking close with God, unparalleled heart and dignity, and talking too loud on the phone. His family mourns as they also celebrate his transition from this life to the next.

Funeral services are planned for Wednesday, June 1 at 10:00 a.m. at Carterville Christian Church, Carterville, Missouri. Family will receive friends Tuesday from 6-8:00 p.m. also at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Carterville Christian Church "Feed The Heart" in care of the mortuary.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.