Jill Eylien Buffa

Jill Eylien Buffa (Sutton), age 73, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on April 11, 2026, after a long illness.

Born on July 8, 1952, in Akron, Ohio, Jill spent her life rooted in Northeast Ohio. It was in Tallmadge where she spent most of her years as a devoted mother, creating a loving home filled with warmth, traditions, and care.

Jill was often described as not having a mean bone in her body. She was gentle, warm, and kind; a truly loving mother, sister, and grandmother. Her quick wit and quiet humor stayed with her throughout her life, bringing smiles to everyone.

Jill loved playing bingo and cards (especially rummy, a game she often won, even up until the very end). She never turned down a great steak, a good book, or time spent with the people she loved most. An avid reader, she built an impressive personal library over the years. Jill was also incredibly creative and crafty, and her handmade creations were always beautiful which was another reflection of the care and love she put into everything she did.

Jill is survived by her loving children, Jason Buffa (Dave Vitale) and Tamara Pickering; and her cherished grandchildren, Austin and Kaitlyn Pickering. She is also survived by her sisters, Joan Buhalak and Jane Weber (Dave), sister-in-law, Dianne Sutton, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Isabelle Bradford Sutton and Walter "Jack" Sutton, and her brother, Walter "Bud" Sutton Jr.

Thank you to Tamarack Ridge Health & Rehabilitation for taking such great care of "Jilly Bean" for us.

Jill will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her deep love for her family, and the warmth she brought into every room. Her memory will live on in the traditions she created, the love she gave so freely, and the moments she shared with those who knew her.

Calling hours will be Sunday, April 19 from 1-3pm at Hummel Funeral Home at 500 E. Exchange St. Akron, OH 44304.

Services to be held at St. Matthew Parish located at 2603 Benton Ave. Akron, OH 44312 on Monday, April 20 at 10:30am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jill's memory to the American Kidney Fund or The Stroke Foundation.