James Buford Oliver

James Buford Oliver, 74, of Swannanoa, passed away on Monday, August 8, 2016, at his residence, surrounded by his family. Born in Rutherford County on September 9, 1941 to the late John A. and Ruby Eileen McKinney Oliver, he was a mechanic with Skyland Exxon Service Station, a veteran of the Vietnam War where he served in the US Army, and was of the Baptist faith. He is preceded in death by siblings, Harold McKinney, Ellen Howard, Edith McCraw and Helen Parker. Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Betty Bright Oliver; four sons, James "Jimmy" Oliver (Angie) of Waynesville, Johnny Oliver (Aleshiea) of Oakley, Frankie Oliver (Andy) of Oteen and Raymond "Rooster" Oliver of Swannanoa; two daughters, Linda Jean Oliver of Arden and Renee Bevill (Ricky) of Swannanoa; two brothers, John "J.D." Oliver (Ruby) of Shelby and Tony A. Oliver (Mickey) of Okeechobee, FL; thirteen grandchildren and one great grandchild. The family will receive friends Thursday, August 11, from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road. Memorials may be made to Care Partners Hospice, P.O. Box 25338, Asheville, NC, 28813.