Pope Lee Buford III 68 passed away Sunday September 2 2012 in Monroe NC. Pope was born October 21 1943 in Newberry SC to the late Pope Lee Jr. and Nan Dawkins Buford. He graduated from Newberry High School and attended The University of Miami FL. He also graduated from The Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science returning to Newberry where he was employed at McSwain Funeral Home for several years. Pope is survived by his wife Lynda of Monroe; two sons Pope Lee Buford IV (Jodie) and Brent Edward Buford and granddaughters Hannah and Sarah Buford all of Greenville SC. He is also survived by stepchildren Jarrod Baucom and Lisa Newsome and 6 step-grandchildren all of Monroe. Pope was predeceased by his parents and his brother Kenneth. Graveside services were held Sunday September 9 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at Rosemont Cemetery in Newberry SC. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the charity of choice. On line condolences may be sent to the family at www.whitakerfuneralhome.com. Whitaker Funeral Home Newberry is assisting the family.