Visitation

July 23, 2024
2:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Service

July 23, 2024
4 p.m.

Committal

July 23, 2024

Major Ambrose Buff III, of Morganton, NC, passed away peacefully on July 20th, 2024. Born on August 27th, 1946, he was the son of the late Willa Mae Causby Mull and Major Ambrose Buff II. Although often referred to as, “Little Major,” he will be remembered for his big personality and unparalleled skill of storytelling. Major retired from truck driving with over 3 million miles on his record. After retirement, he became a “professional loafer” and day trip extraordinaire. His time was spent living life to the fullest surrounded by family and friends. Major was a stranger to none and a friend to all. He will be greatly missed.

In addition to his parents, Major was preceded in death by a brother, Roy Lee Buff.

He is survived by his wife, Naomi Penley Buff; daughter, Tammy Farris (Jon); granddaughter, Dr. Emily Laine Farris, PT, DPT; brothers, Larry Buff (Jeanette) and Jimmy Buff (Linda); and a host of nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 2:30-4pm on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The service will begin at 4pm in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home with Rev. Tim Hodge officiating. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you remember Major through acts of service. Consider taking a friend to breakfast, visiting a loved one, or introducing yourself to a new neighbor.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Tribute Wall

Leave a tribute for Major A. Buff, III.

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Major walked into my store and said I was talking to a Coal miner at McDonald's he said he was looking for somebody to take them on a ride in these mountains the miner told him to come see me we were instant friends I'm truly sorry for your loss I pray God gives you peace he was one of a kind of man

—Rick Mounts of Gilbert WV

I remember Major from when I first met him in 1999. We were looking at his house in Morganton and he said forget the Realtors, just come on over and we will show you the house. It was the most extensive tour ever and later when the Realtor did take me through the house, I was able to give them more information than they knew! They invited us over several times after that and we just sat around and talked. Major always had the best stories. We bought the house and Major was always there with advice and came to my work to visit me. Prayers for you and your family Naomi, I can’t imagine what you are going through. I will miss him greatly.

—Eric Jones

So sorry to hear of Major’s passing, I knew Major practically all my life having grew up in the Salem community. He was a story teller for sure. He will be missed especially his friends at Buds. My condolences to the family.

—Don Smith

Deepest sympathy.

—Ann Smith

Rest In Peace Major. Marsha Buff

—Marsha Buff
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Family, you are in our prayers and thoughts. We love you.

—Benny $ Barbara Childers
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—Mary Frances Parton

I met Major through his wife who I worked with. He became my dear friend who I thought the best of. He was a great friend and I know he will be missed by all who knew him . I didn’t get to see him very often since I moved away several years ago..

—Joe Phillips

I sure liked Little Major.He was one the nicest people I knew...

—TIMOTHY LUTHER NORMAN

To the family of Little Major, A friend to many and all who he came into contact with! An amazing personality who always was very friendly! A good man! He is resting now with God the Father and The Son in heaven! Many prayers for his family and loved ones who will surely miss him! Love/Prayers to the family, Sharon Swink Cain

—Sharon S Cain