Austin "Buddy" Goforth, 91, of Reliance, departed this life on February 16, 2025.

He was born on March 5, 1933, in Polk County to the late John and Bessie Merrell Goforth.

The Goforth Family were original settlers to Polk County, settling on the Ocoee River, now known as Goforth Creek. Buddy worked for TVA including jobs on the Ocoee Dam System and the flume line and is the oldest living member of Greasy Greek Baptist Church for more than 70 years.

He was a Christian and family man above all but was also known for being a master gardener, especially regarding the growing of pumpkins. A talented man, he had a special talent by crafting turkey calls along with kitchen knives. His love for people was evident, as he had friends from all over the United States. He loved his family dearly and was very proud of his grandsons, Colby Goforth and Briar Lowe.

In addition to his parents, John and Bessie Goforth, he was preceded in death by his sister, Bertha Wilcox and her husband, Oliver; brothers, Lon (Josephine) Goforth, Birch (Mae Agnus) Goforth, Brown (Meleane) Goforth, and Alden (Ruth) Goforth.

Left to cherish the many memories include his beloved wife, Yvonne Campbell Goforth; one son, Dale (Victoria) Goforth; one daughter, Ghena (Tommy) Frazier; grandsons, Colby Goforth, and Briar (Hannah) Lowe; nephew, Clifford (Ava) Goforth; great-nephew, Richie Goforth. Several nieces, nephews, and a host of friends also survive.

A Celebration of Life service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2025, in the chapel of Higgins Funeral Home, with Pastor Cody Harris, Pastor Wilfred Wright, and Pastor Hoyle Ellis officiating. Interment will follow at Greasy Creek Cemetery, with his family serving as pallbearers.

Family and friends will gather from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, prior to the service at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.HigginsFuneral.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Higgins Funeral Home of Benton.