Russell Allen Buckner

Russell “Rusty” Allen Buckner, 73, was found deceased Friday, February 24, 2023 in the comfort of his home in Stapleton.  Services, including military honors, to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at Saint Joan of Arc Catholic Church with Father John Wright officiating.  The family will receive friends after the services.

Rusty was one of seven born to the late Ella Beatrice LaFave Buckner and the late Earl Desmond Buckner.  Growing up in Jellico TN was idyllic.  After losing his father at an early age, he learned to stand up for himself and not be pushed around.  After attending Jellico High School, he enlisted in the Army and served a tour and an extended tour in Viet Nam from August 1969 until March 1971. He then moved to IN working for an automaker before moving to Savannah. Rusty then took a job with Norfolk Southern Railroad which brought him and his family to Wrens. After 34 years of service and suffering through some health problems, he retired and devoted his time to his family and renovating his home—he was one that always stayed busy. Rusty was one who loved driving fast, especially on his beloved motorcycle.  He loved his motorcycle so much so that he parked it inside the house until a certain insurance agent forbid it!  Loving the freedom of the open road, he drove his motorcycle over 50,000 miles in a two-year period. Rusty enjoyed hunting, fishing, cross-stitching and quilting.  An animal lover, his favorite pastime was watching birds, and feeding deer, squirrel, and other animals in his yard.  Rusty made many treks to the beach, his favorite place to visit, which gave him a sense of solace and peace.  He was one who loved to have a good time and, having a great sense of humor, was known as a prankster.  Rusty has been described as being a survivor, a protector and a paradox—being a big man, he was intimidating on the outside but having a big heart on the inside. He was generous to a fault and was always helping others.  Rusty had a great, great love for his family, not just his immediate family but all of his family---brothers, sister, nieces, nephews, in-laws.  This unique, caring, loving man will be greatly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Rusty is also preceded in death by his brothers, Henry Buckner, Gilbert Buckner, and Francis Robert Buckner. Those left to cherish his memories include his son, Chris Buckner (Eva) of Vero Beach FL; three siblings, Earl D. Buckner (Lula), James Buckner (Mary) and Rosella Palmer (Mickey); a host of nieces, nephews, other extended family and friends.

The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center by calling 1-877.353.9791 or by visiting www.cdceportal.va.gov choosing the state: GA and then the facility: Charlie Norwood VAMC (509).