William L. "Billy" Buff, Sr., 91, passed away on Thursday November 24, 2016, Thanksgiving morning. Born March 14, 1925 a son of the late John T. Buff and Lou Ella B. Buff of Columbia, SC. He was a faithful member of New Heights Church where he served as deacon, greeter & usher for over 50 years. Billy was a World War II veteran and a Mason. He and his wife, Emma, were committed volunteers at Palmetto Health Baptist Hospital for over 15 years.

Surviving are his son, William L Buff, Jr. (Karen) of Woodbury, NJ; stepson, Len F. Ross, Jr. (Kim) of Columbia, SC; sisters, Mary Lou Buff McCall, June Buff Mabus; sister-in-law, Cynthia Buff; grandchildren, Tammi Buff Dean (Eddie), Michael Buff (Margaret), Dawn Heaney, and Scott Heaney all of NJ; great grandchildren, Danielle Flynn (Michael) of CO, and Taylor Heaney of NJ; great great grandchildren, Liam, Caleigh, Teagen Flynn all of CO; nephews, Chuck Barnett (Lois), Tillman McCall (Cindy); niece, Sandra Ritchie Humphries (James) and many other nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, Emma Blair Ross Buff, Billy was preceded in death by his brothers, John T. Buff and Bobby W. Buff and sisters, Francis Buff Barnett, Mildred Buff Elsey and Sally Buff Ritchie. A very special appreciation is extended to his church family and to the nurses, caretakers and staff at White Oak Manor of Columbia for their love and care of "Daddy Bill".

A memorial celebration of his life will be held at New Heights Church, 5501 Broad River Road, Columbia at 7 o'clock, Tuesday November 29, 2016 with Pastor Mike Townsend officiating. The family will greet friends following the service at the church. Memorials may be sent to New Heights Church. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family with the arrangements.