Harvey C. "Buster" Brewster

Harvey C. “Buster” Brewster, age 84, of Bellbrook and formerly of Fairborn, OH, went home to be with the Lord, Saturday, May 3, 2025, while surrounded by his loved ones. He was born May 29, 1940, in Patterson, VA, the son of the late Alexander Brewster and Bernice (Daniels) Brewster Stepp.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, known for his generous spirit and sociable nature. His legacy of kindness and warmth is cherished by the many family and friends who had the privilege to know him.

Buster graduated from Burch High School, Delbarton, WV, in 1959, where he made a significant mark as a leader, serving as captain of the varsity football team and showcasing his athletic talents on the basketball court. Following high school, he pursued higher education, earning a football scholarship to Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. After sustaining an injury in his sophomore year at Marshall, Buster withdrew from the university. Sometime later, he joined the United States Air Force, during which time he earned a Bachelor of Arts in economics/business administration from Park University, further demonstrating his dedication to personal growth and achievement. He was stationed at various bases, to include Matagorda Island Air Force Range, Port O’Connor, Texas, Soesterberg Air Base, The Netherlands, Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Vietnam, Lockbourne Air Force Base, now known as Rickenbacker International Airport, Ohio, Hahn Air Base, Germany, and Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio. His military service earned him accolades, including The Air Force Commendation Medal with numerous oak leaf clusters, and The Meritorious Service Medal, a testament to his excellence in duty.

After retirement from active-duty service, he transitioned to a distinguished civilian career with the Department of Defense at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. As a management engineer, he made noteworthy contributions, culminating in his recognition as the 1996 Manpower and Quality Management Civilian of the Year (Headquarters Category) for his outstanding contributions to the manpower and quality management program while a member of the Requirements Branch, Manpower and Organization Division, Directorate of Plans and Programs, Headquarters Air Force Materiel Command. He retired after 38 combined years of active duty and civilian service. After a commendable career in civil service, Buster took to inspiring future generations as a substitute teacher, embodying the spirit of education and mentorship that he cherished so dearly.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Buster was a man of many interests. He loved watching college football games. He found joy in hunting, fishing, and playing golf. He was a former member of the New Carlisle Masonic Lodge #100 and the Antioch Shrine. He was also known for his love of music, particularly jazz, and rock-n-roll. He was known to perform a mean jitterbug dance to the oldies hits! His culinary skills were unparalleled. He delighted in cooking for his family and friends, especially with his wife, Goldie, during holidays and family gatherings, creating fond memories together that will be forever cherished by many.

Buster's character was defined by his willingness to help others, and he was well-liked by everyone who crossed his path. He truly loved being surrounded by family and friends, with whom he shared enduring bonds. His children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren held him in the highest regard, and he took great pride in their accomplishments and happiness.

His family and friends will remember him for his remarkable personality, generous heart, and unwavering support. Buster Brewster leaves behind a legacy built on a foundation of love, humility, and dedication to family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Christopher C. Brewster; two sisters, Joretta (Buddy) Butcher, Lilly (Russ) Painter; two brothers, David Brewster, Jack (Barbara) Brewster, Sr.; He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Goldie P. (Salmons) Brewster; a daughter, N. Renae (Jason Schultz) Sylvester-Schultz; four granddaughters, Stephanie (Kyle Knouff) Sylvester, Madison (Dillon) Jones, Alicia (Colin Bonine) Sylvester, Sierra (Ricky Williams) Schultz; grandson, Tyler (Dr. Ken Keller, DO) Sylvester; ten great-grandchildren, Camden, Emilia, Charlotte, MacKenzie, Katelynn, Levi, Sophia, Oakley, Kinslee, Korbin; sisters- and brothers-in-law, James Salmons, Jr., Bonnie (Terry) Jones, Nancy (Ralph) Alles, former son-in-law, Steven Sylvester; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and colleagues.

A funeral service will be held at 12:30 P.M. Monday, May 12, 2025, at the Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, 422 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn, OH. The family will receive friends from 11:00 A.M. until the time of service, Pastor Matt Morrison, celebrant. Burial with United States Air Force honors at the Byron Cemetery, Fairborn, OH.