William "Buzz" Heflin Barton Jr. Obituary
William Heflin Barton Jr., "Buzz" or "Buzzy" (depending on how long you knew him), of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, passed away on June 17, 2026, at the age of 72.
Buzz is survived by his wife of 50 years, Sally; his sister, Debby Laycock; his brother, Randy Barton (Melissa); his three children, Mary Virginia Best (Bill), William Barton (Brooke), and Anna Catherine Soule (John); and his eight grandchildren, Will Best (Laura), Anderson Green, Walker Green, Jack Soule, William Barton, Mary Barton Soule, Beau Barton, and Latten Soule. His nephew, nieces, family friends, and caregivers—Janice, Paula, and Pamela—as well as the Home RN staff, will remember him with love.
Buzz was born on June 26, 1953, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Mary and Bill Barton. He was a lifelong Eagle Scout and served as class president of the Tuscaloosa High School Class of 1971. Buzz attended Auburn University and graduated in 1975 with a degree in Business and a minor in Horticulture. He then returned to Tuscaloosa to join the family business, Guthrie-Barton Nursery, which later became known as Barton Nursery & Landscaping. Buzz proudly served as President of the Southern Nurserymen's Association in 1991.
Home was always Tuscaloosa. Buzz loved his community and played a significant role in making it more beautiful. He and Sally built a wonderful life together.
An avid outdoorsman, Buzz truly loved nothing more than being at the farm with his family. He loved BIG in everything he did, and it showed—from his devotion to family to his countless friendships. He never met a stranger. He will be remembered for his smile, his infectious spirit, and his selfless, loving nature. He was the most caring man his family had ever known—and he had a hell of a handshake.
Following a private graveside service, a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the home of Mary Virginia and Bill Best, 6627 Waterfront Drive, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Hospice of West Alabama, the Saban Center Outdoor Garden Beautification Fund, or a charity of your choice.
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