Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home & Crematory

Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home & Crematory Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home and Crematory has served families in Lake Okeechobee for 45 years.
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We are proud to be the only locally owned family funeral home in the area. As the only locally family owned funeral home in Okeechobee, our promise to you is compassionate and respectful care while ensuring professional guidance for those we serve. As a full service funeral home we offer a vast selection of service and product options at affordable prices. Today many families are choosing crematio

n and it's important that you know we operate the only onsite crematory in Okeechobee County. Because of this, we offer you peace of mind knowing your loved one is in our care at all times and never transported to distant crematories where countless cremations are handled. We ensure every cremation is performed with careful individualized attention to detail with the dignity you're loved one deserves.

Robert Louis Sturges, III, 69Robert Louis Sturges, III died April 7, 2026. He was born February 7, 1957 in Miami, Florid...
04/28/2026

Robert Louis Sturges, III, 69

Robert Louis Sturges, III died April 7, 2026. He was born February 7, 1957 in Miami, Florida to Robert Louis Sturges, II and Jean Barbara Sturges.

He is survived by his sister, Bonnie Jean Maclees; children, Robert Louis Sturges, IV, Adam Richard Sturges, and Sara Emily Dorward Sturges; and grandchildren, Robert Louis Sturges, V, and Lilianna Jean Dorward.

A private memorial will be held.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Jonathan Wesley Davenport, 45Jonathan ‘JW’ Wesley Davenport passed away on April 25, 2026. He was born on May 19, 1980 i...
04/28/2026

Jonathan Wesley Davenport, 45

Jonathan ‘JW’ Wesley Davenport passed away on April 25, 2026. He was born on May 19, 1980 in Okeechobee, Florida to Gary Lester Davenport and Victoria Lynn Hornung. JW was a lifelong resident of Okeechobee. He enjoyed going hunting, fishing, watching golf, and could also play a pretty decent game of pool.

He is survived by his parents, Gary and Vicki Davenport; brother, Jake Davenport (Taylor); nephews, Liam, Jett, Michael, and Brody; grandfather, Papa Gary Fulwider; and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Joseph W. Canegallo, 77Joseph W. Canegallo passed away on April 21, 2026. He was born on April 22, 1948 in Jersey City, ...
04/24/2026

Joseph W. Canegallo, 77

Joseph W. Canegallo passed away on April 21, 2026. He was born on April 22, 1948 in Jersey City, New Jersey to Henry and Sarah Canegallo. Joseph was a resident of Okeechobee for the last 7 years. He enjoyed being an automobile mechanic.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Sarah Canegallo.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Rebecca Canegallo; sons, Danny Canegallo, Christopher Boterf, Joey Canegallo, and Patrick Boterf; daughters, Amanda and Lorri Canegallo; and seven amazing grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com . All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Thank you for the host of people that came last night to recognize the artistic talents of my dad, Paul M. Buxton.  It’s...
04/24/2026

Thank you for the host of people that came last night to recognize the artistic talents of my dad, Paul M. Buxton. It’s an honor of ours to share his artwork with more than those coming in my office to make arrangements. The painting will be hanging in the old courthouse for the next few months or so…thank you all again for recognizing Dad’s many talents and his devotion to Okeechobee.

Billy Edward Rice, 76Billy Edward Rice died on April 22, 2026. He was born on June 10, 1949 in Red Oak, Iowa to Warren a...
04/24/2026

Billy Edward Rice, 76

Billy Edward Rice died on April 22, 2026. He was born on June 10, 1949 in Red Oak, Iowa to Warren and Marian (Miller) Rice. Billy attended How Military School in 1966 and joined the United States Army in 1968 where he served four years. In 1971, he was honorably discharged from the Army. His years in the service were very important to him.

After leaving the service he met Mary Jo Pudenz, the love of his life, in Des Moines, Iowa. They were married on July 28, 1981, and made their home in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Billy worked hard at building his own heating and air business. After 20 years, he closed the business due to health issues and purchased a clock repair store. After several years repairing clocks, he retired to live in Florida with his lovely wife, Mary Jo.

He enjoyed his life in Florida, fishing, and gardening. He bragged about his large onions and tomatoes. Bill loved to give his produce to his neighbors and friends.

He was preceded in death by his two sons; parents, Warren and Marian Rice; cousins, Wesley Felt and Craig Hatfield; sons, Billy Rice and Tommy Rice; and his favorite pet, Summer.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Mary Jo Rice; aunts, Shirley Miller (Dick) and Jeri Woods (Don); and cousins, Wanda, Wesla, and Red.

He will be remembered for his willingness to help anyone in need.

A memorial service will be at 4:00pm on April 26, 2025 at the Buckhead Ridge Baptist Church.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com.

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Jay Lee Townes, 79Jay Lee Townes passed away on April 20, 2026. He was born on May 22, 1946 in Cedar Springs, Michigan t...
04/24/2026

Jay Lee Townes, 79

Jay Lee Townes passed away on April 20, 2026. He was born on May 22, 1946 in Cedar Springs, Michigan to Harvey Jay Townes and Virginia Naffinzer. Jay was a resident of Okeechobee for over 13 years. Jay had a passion for the open road. As a dedicated truck driver, he spent countless years in his semi, becoming a living atlas who knew every highway and landmark across the United States. Jay also enjoyed barbecue, building something with his own hands, and traveling to new places.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey Jay Townes and Virginia McClendon; brother, Skipper Townes; and sisters, Terry Robert and Cassandra Oliver.

He is survived by his daughters, Jayla Townes and Gina Buhlmaier (Robert); son, Tim Grega; brothers, J.R. Stanfield Hayes (Rea Ann); sisters, Judy Bratcher, Valerie Hill (Norm), and Robin Borstler; grandchildren, Kory Buhlmaier, Kourtney Bennett, Jennifer Buhlmaier, David Buhlmaier, Elijah Buhlmaier, Cheyenne Thibodeau, Delaney Baughman, Timothy Grega, and Amanda Grega; great grandchildren, Jacelynn Buhlmaier, Lillian Bennett, Andrew Bennett, Kody Barlow, David Buhlmaier, Kai Thibodeau, Layla Thibodeau, Brayden Baughman, and Naveah Grega; beloved four legged girls, Ginger and Rosie; and along with a host of nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Benjamin Franklin Hilton, 90Benjamin Franklin Hilton passed away on April 21, 2026. He was born on September 12, 1935 in...
04/24/2026

Benjamin Franklin Hilton, 90

Benjamin Franklin Hilton passed away on April 21, 2026. He was born on September 12, 1935 in Miami, Florida to Frank James Hilton and Suzanna Virginia Fletcher. Benjamin was a resident of Okeechobee for over 30 years and a member of First United Methodist Church. He enjoyed model cars, collecting lanterns, and most of all tinkering with everything.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 45 years, Susan Hilton; parents, Frank James Hilton and Suzanna Virginia Fletcher; daughter, Karen Hilton; brother, Jim Hilton; and sisters, Barbara and Clara Hilton.

He is survived by his sons, Mark J. Hilton of Fort Pierce, Florida and Matthew L. Hilton of Dahlonega, Georgia; and grandchildren, Marshall Hilton of Fort Pierce, Florida, Everett Hilton of Port St. Lucie, Florida, Austin and Holly Hilton of Port St. Lucie, Florida, and Mark Hilton, Jr. of Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026 at First Methodist Church in Okeechobee, Florida. Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

James Lester Gore, 47James Lester Gore died April 21, 2026. He was born June 30, 1978 in Avon Park, Florida to Gordon Ja...
04/23/2026

James Lester Gore, 47

James Lester Gore died April 21, 2026. He was born June 30, 1978 in Avon Park, Florida to Gordon James Gore and Charlene Buster Gore. He was an avid Miami Hurricanes fan. He enjoyed hunting and was an adrenaline fan.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon James Gore and Charlene Buster Gore and sister, Vanessa Lynn Gore Osceola; and grandbaby, Montana Tobias Hill.

He is survived by his children, Warren Gore, Zach Gore, Aniya Gore, Alexis Gore, Alonie Gore, Ashanti Gore, James Gore, Angeleah Gore, Annaleise Gore, Adreaonna Gore, Javonni Gore, and Jaiden Gore; grandchildren, Tobias Murphy, Xiomara Sanders, Xylynn Sanders, Yaelie Morales, Leylanii Ayulo, Jasper Gore, Evelyn Gore, Kaiisun Gore, Kiyomii Gore, Persephonii Gore; wife and mother of his children, Christina Gore; and extended family members.

Graveside service will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026 at Ortona Cemetery.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Nathan William Norton, 72Nathan ‘Nat’ William Norton gently passed away on April 18, 2026. Born on March 14, 1954 in Cle...
04/23/2026

Nathan William Norton, 72

Nathan ‘Nat’ William Norton gently passed away on April 18, 2026. Born on March 14, 1954 in Clewiston, Florida, to Leola (Knight) and Seigler Norton, Sr. Though his journey took him to Orange Park and Largo, his heart always remained in Clewiston. He spent his happiest hours fishing, water skiing, hunting, and roller skating, embracing everything the Florida lifestyle had to offer. He grew up surrounded by a large, close-knit family and a multitude of cousins.

Nat was a "Jack of all trades" and a gifted contractor and builder. He grew up in the construction industry, learning the trade alongside his father and three brothers. His hardworking spirit also took him to the waters of Lake Okeechobee, where he worked as a haul seine fisherman with his father and brothers during the late 1970s and 1980s. Later, he continued this work with his lifelong friend, Melvin Rosen. Nat lived in Largo, where he specialized in remodeling condos with his close friend Don Styers. During this time, he became a cherished member of the family to Don, Cindy, and their loved ones. His heart, however, never left the lake; prior to his passing, he had returned to Clewiston.

Beyond his work, Nat’s favorite pastime was hanging at the Tiki or Brenda’s Place, he was happiest shooting pool, enjoying a few cold ones, and sharing a laugh with family and friends. Some might say Nat was an "acquired taste" due to his distinct personality; he certainly had his rough edges, but they were balanced by a soft heart. He was the kind of man who would give anyone in need the shirt off his back. Nat will be greatly missed by us all, especially his laugh and big smile.

Preceded in death by his parents, Leola and Seigler Norton, Sr.; brother, Walter Hunter Norton; grandparents, Willie and May Norton, and Clyde and Frances Knight.

Nathan is survived by his son, Dwight (Venus) Norton of Huntsville, Arkansas; brothers, Seigler Norton, Jr. of Clewiston, Florida and Lawrence (Elizabeth) Norton of Six Mile, South Carolina; sisters, Zelda (Warren) Thomas of Clewiston, Florida and Linda (Mike) Morgan of Clewiston, Florida; grandchildren, James, Alisha, Quisha (Charles), Jasmine (Adam), and Heather; great grandchildren, Jaylee, Leslie, Timothy, Jaydance, Evelyn, Legacy, Cole, Crystal, Izabelle Welch, Izabelle Beatty, Natalie, Hunter, and Colton.

Nathan’s life was rooted in his Christian upbringing. He passed away having found peace with his Lord and Savior. Rest in peace, brother.

Graveside service will be at Ridgelawn Cemetery on May 30th, 2026 at 11:00am. Following the service there will be a Celebration of Life at Roland Martin's Tiki Bar, 920 East Del Monte, Clewiston, Florida.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Russell Scott Ranftl, 65Russell Scott Ranftl died April 18, 2026. He was born on December 15, 1960 in Ohio. He was a mem...
04/22/2026

Russell Scott Ranftl, 65

Russell Scott Ranftl died April 18, 2026. He was born on December 15, 1960 in Ohio. He was a member of the Local 18 Union, like his father. He loved creating artwork from a young age, that passion stayed with him his entire life.

Mr. Ranftl was preceded in death by his parents, Judy and Russell Ranftl; sons, Jarend and Caleb; and his sister, Laura.

He is survived by his daughter, Jessica; grandchildren, Bryan and Jesse; and sister, Cherie.

No services will be held.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

You are welcome to join us for this special occasion in recognizing the artistic talents of Paul M. Buxton.
04/21/2026

You are welcome to join us for this special occasion in recognizing the artistic talents of Paul M. Buxton.

Address

400 North Parrott Avenue
Okeechobee, FL
34972

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