Obituary: Family pay tribute to James Buxton following his death

James Buxton with his cat Tonto

The family of James Buxton, the husband of Shelly B’s Café owner, Shelly Buxton, have paid tribute to him following his death on Sunday 13 September.

James died at his home at the age of 54 after a short battle with cancer.

Born on 17 August 1961, James was born in Kuala Lumpar as his dad was in the British Army. James had family in Oldham and would often come back to visit. The family eventually moved back to Oldham when James was 17-years-old

Upon his return to Oldham, James started work at the Clegg Street Warehouse and worked on the parcels for carriages. He then decided to become a train guard and following his enthusiasm for trains, James became a train driver. He was part of the railway service for 36 years.

James met his wife Shelly at the age of 14. Shelly lived close to James’ grandma and the two would often see each other when James went to visit. When he returned to the town at the age of 17, he told Shelly that he had come back for her and the two stayed together from that day forward.

James and Shelly were together for 36 years and were married for 30 years. Together they had three children – Steven, who died seven years ago, Ryan and Kirsty. They also have one granddaughter.

Speaking about James, Shelly said: “He was a pretty easy going man. He was very much a family man and was very family orientated. He was never too bothered about having a social life and wasn’t too bothered about going out. He always went to work and then came home to be with his family and worked hard for his family.”

When he wasn’t out working, James liked to do work in his garden.

James was recently diagnosed with cancer - following complaints of back pain, James went to the hospital where, following numerous tests, he was told that cancer had spread to his lungs, liver and lower spine.

The family are not yet sure of the funeral details but will let people know as soon as things are finalised.

Shelly B’s Café is currently closed but Shelly is hoping to re-open next week and has thanked everyone for their support at this time.