Bishop Ernest Buxton was born on February 24, 1946, in Millen, Georgia to the late Sidney Buxton, Sr. and Mary Ann Bostic. He passed away on April 22, 2020.
He came to New York at a young age and was raised in the village of Nyack. He attended the Nyack public schools. As a child it was discovered that he was legally blind, but that did not stop him from completing his studies and competing in wrestling, football and other activities. After graduating high school he worked to support his family.
He was an accomplished and excellent drummer. He toured with the band Signed, Sealed, Delivered and performed with various other prominent groups.
A series of life-changing experiences gave him time to contemplate and evaluate the path he had taken.
He accepted Jesus Christ as his savior and was filled with the Holy Ghost. He dedicated his life in service to the Lord, the church, and the community.
He returned to his father's church, Faith Temple, in Spring Valley, NY, and served faithfully as a Musician, Choir Director, Minister of Music, Teacher, Deacon, Elder, and a host of other roles. In 2005 he was appointed as Pastor.
He sang with the Spirit, directed with skill, taught & preached with conviction, danced with enthusiasm, and shared his testimony willingly. Under his leadership the church music department grew and thrived. The Faith Temple Mass Choir was recognized as a ministry that praised the Lord with joy and Holy Ghost power. With the encouragement and support of Bishop Sidney Buxton and Bishop Ernest Buxton several gifted musicians and singers were developed and shared their talents to the glory of God.
In 1978 he was joined in holy matrimony to his loving and devoted wife, Edna. This union resulted in a blended family of 7 children.
He was known for his kindness, gentleness, patience and thoughtfulness. People inside and outside of the church came to him for prayer, guidance, wisdom, emotional support, money, or a listening ear. It was not unusual for someone to walk up to him and his wife at the grocery store, the mall or a parking lot and ask for prayer.
He would greet you with a smile and say "How in the world are you?" If something interesting, unusual or humorous occurred he would say "Have mercy!"
A photography hobby turned into a rewarding and professional career. He took many, many wonderful photos that captured fun and heartfelt memories that will always be treasured.
He attended Nyack College and received instruction in ministry and music. He graduated from the Manhattan Bible Institute.
He brought his musical knowledge and expertise to the Church of Christ Written in Heaven conventions. He served honorably as the head of the music department and was instrumental in raising the convention choirs to a level of excellence that is enjoyed and appreciated to this day. He welcomed the gifts and talents of singers and musicians throughout the movement.
He was installed as a Bishop in the Church of Christ Written in Heaven at the Holy Convocation in Waycross, GA.
For many years he was the president of the Rockland County Ministers Alliance Choir. He was a respected and beloved leader who was not only an awesome director, but a teacher of choir decorum and the Word of God. He led by example and appreciated every participant. When selecting lead singers he would say "Now if you don't normally sing lead with your church choir, don't make this your debut."
He received numerous accolades and recognition from various religious, civic and community organizations.
Bishop Buxton loved his family and they loved him. He will be remembered as a family pillar who made himself available regularly. He served the Lord as long as he could until severe illness intervened.
Even at the Northern Manor Nursing Home he would pray, sing and talk about the goodness of Jesus.
He will be greatly missed. His eternal home is in Heaven.

He was predeceased by his parents, Bishop Sidney Buxton Sr., Mother Lela Buxton and Mary Ann Bostic; Grandmother, Lottie Buxton; Aunt Mildred Foster, Aunt Gertha Scott, Uncles Lonnie, Raymond & Elijah Buxton; Brothers -John Henry Bostic, Robert James Bostic, and Horace Lee Bostic.

He leaves to mourn his "Sugar" and beloved wife of 42 years, Edna; Children - Monica Buxton-Sledge (Kwame), Peter (Vangeline), Candace Altman (Terrence), Ernest, Jr. (Christina), Shannon, Michelle Lewis (Balmain) and Christopher O'Neal; Grandchildren and Great-grandchildren; Brothers - Arthur Buxton and Sidney Buxton, Jr.; Aunt Florine Hamilton; Nieces and Nephews; a multitude of Cousins; Godchildren, Church Family and Friends.
A special thank you to the Northern Manor administrative staff, nurses and the CNA's who cared for him.
We appreciate your love, support and prayers during our time of grief.

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge,
shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them that love his appearing.
2 Timothy 4:7-8