James Dale Buff, 81, of Hickory, went to his Heavenly Home on Monday April 6, 2026, at his residence after a period of declining health.

Mr. Buff was born July 26, 1944, in Cleveland County, a son of the late Ual Lawrence and Sarah Ruth Pendelton Buff. He was retired from Gaines Motor Iines, working as a truck driver, Dock Foreman and later as a Route Supervisor. James was a faithful member of Winkler’s Grove Baptist Church, serving as a deacon, and on numerous committees. He was a member of the Rhodhiss and Drowning Creek Fire Departments and also served as a first responder. He loved to work in his garden and most of all being a loving husband, father and grandfather.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Debbie Ray.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Linda Whisnant Buff of the home, two daughters, Tamara Stamey (Brian) of Morganton and Jamie Rash (Steve) of Hickory, two brothers, Jerry Buff of Lincolnton and Dennis Buff of Hickory. Also surviving are the apple of his eyes, his grandchildren, Anna Wilkerson and Jordan Rash.

Funeral Services for James Dale Buff will be held at 4:00 P.M. Sunday April 12, 2026 at Winkler’s Grove Baptist Church with Rev. Paul Deal and Rev. Dean Hart officiating. Interment will follow in the Winkler’s Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 Until 3:45 P.M. Sunday at Winkler’s Grove Baptist Church.

Memorials may be made to Winkler’s Grove Baptist Church, 3320 9th Ave. Dr. NW, Hickory, NC 28601.

An online guestbook and obituary is available at www.heritagefuneralservice.com.