We, the family of Suleah “Joey” JoAnn Buga, are deeply saddened to announce her passing, at age 51, at 5:40AM, Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Parkview Hospital in Wabash. Where, following an extended, arduous, valiant battle against breast cancer, she peacefully succumbed, surrounded by family.

She was born in Ypsilanti, MI, on November 14, 1974, the daughter of William and Sanguan (née Thongteh) Cozine. Joey married Thomas M. Buga II on November 11, 1995, at the Hungarian Reformed Church of Lorain, Ohio. He survives.

Though predominantly working as a homemaker, occasionally, over the years, she took on jobs outside the home, finding particular joy and meaning in customer service roles. Despite some reticence, Joey delighted in getting to know people, particularly in sharing their struggles and triumphs, which allowed her to gain, from among her customers and colleagues, several dear friends. These friends, her family, and faith in GOD bolstered her as she courageously faced her devastating illness.

She enjoyed cooking, painting, going to bingo with her mother and sisters, playing cards with her in-laws, and spending time with her daughter.

Joey is survived by her husband Thomas; their daughter Sara Buga; her mother Sanguan, beloved stepfather Bill Baber; sisters Suntiya MaryAnn Cozine and Stephanie BethAnn Bach. She was preceded in death by her father William Cozine.

A service celebrating the life of Suleah JoAnn Buga will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Eikenberry-Eddy Funeral Home, 84 W Main St. Peru, with Pastor Ryan Weaver officiating. Family and friends will gather for visitation from 9:00 – 11:00 AM, Saturday, at the funeral home. In accordance with her wishes, her remains will be cremated for dispersion, at some (hopefully much, much) later date, with those of her as-yet surviving husband.

Consider honoring her memory by choosing to joyfully comfort, uplift, inspire, and encourage others to rise to meet the challenges in their lives as she would have.

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