Mayor Jared Nicholson and Councilor-at-Large Brian LaPierre were among the Lynn officials paying tribute to their colleague in city government, Councillor-at-Large Gordon “Buzzy” Barton, who died on April 5, 2023 at the age of 70.
“Councilor Gordon “Buzzy” Barton was an amazing leader, great friend, and a truly good man,” said Mayor Nicholson “It is hard to think of anything to do with the City of Lynn without him. He cared passionately about his City and all of its people, including the so many individuals he knew and loved. He protected Lynn as a public servant, made it a fairer and more just place, and brought joy into the lives of so many through his humor, warmth, and kindness. Councilor Barton was a trailblazer in many ways and on many fronts, always driven by an unshakeable decency and a natural ability to bring people together. He served as a role model for countless people, including myself. I send my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Brian LaPierre, who served on the City Council with Buzzy Barton, said, “Buzzy always put his City first and foremost, along with his family. He really loved every aspect of representing folks around the City of Lynn. He was a tremendous colleague to confide in, work with, and seek advice from. His legacy in Lynn has been far reaching and will continue to set the standard for public officials to follow.”
Lynn Tech graduate James Ridley, a member of the St. Mary’s High School administration, remembers playing basketball against Buzzy as a youth at the local parks.
“Buzzy Barton was a lifelong friend of mine,” said Ridley. “We started playing opposite of each other in the park league in junior high school. We became good friends when he became a firefighter, and I became a teacher. To show you what Buzzy was all about – two years ago, he was walking the beach and I was jogging the beach. It was really windy, and I didn’t have any gloves on, and Buzzy wanted to give me his gloves, because he was heading home, and I was just starting out. He would give you the shirt off his back. That’s the kind of guy he was. Buzzy was a lovely, lovely person. He’s probably the only guy I know that everyone who knows him, they all say, ‘he’s a good guy.’’’
St. Mary’s Girls Basketball Coach and Athletic Director Jeff Newhall said Buzzy Barton attended every one of his team’s games during its run to the state title in March.
“Buzzy was there for our team every game, including the championship game at Tsongas,” said Newhall. “I can’t thank him enough for all of his support of our program. He was a tremendous person whose smile and personality were majestic. As a city councilor, he represented his constituents with distinction, honor, and class. I offer our sincere condolences to his family. Buzzy will be missed by all.”
Patrick Smith was one of Buzzy Barton’s friends for many years. “I am totally heartbroken about the passing of Buzzy Barton. Buzzy was a friend for 50 years and always a gentleman. He was always smiling and helping out other people in the City. He was a great guy. You can’t meet a better guy than Buzzy, ever. He’s irreplaceable.”