Donald Edward Buckner

Donald Edward Buckner, a man whose life was a testament to love, generosity, faith, and dedication, was born on March 7, 1930, in Cookeville, Tennessee. Donald passed away Tuesday August 25, 2026 at NHC of Cookeville. He was the son of James Estes Buckner and Pruna Mae Beasley Buckner, who instilled in him the values of hard work and compassion that he carried throughout his remarkable life.

Donald was a proud graduate of Cookeville Central High School, where he made history as a member of the school's first-ever band, playing the French horn. His motivation for participating in the band was an attraction for a fellow band member, Juanita Loftis, who would later become his wife.

Donald enjoyed a long and respected career as the owner of Buckner & Associates Insurance Inc. in Dayton, Ohio, where he was known for his integrity, strong work ethic, and commitment to serving others. Upon his retirement he came home to Cookeville where he became known as a quality builder of numerous homes that continue to provide shelter and memories for generations of families.

Donald was a man of deep faith. He found salvation in Jesus Christ at Cookeville First United Methodist Church and was later baptized at Cookeville First Baptist Church, where he remained a dedicated member for many years. Later in life, he found joy and fellowship at Covenant Church, where his faith and church family were an important part of his life.

In his personal life, Donald was blessed with a marriage spanning seven decades to his beloved wife, Juanita Loftis Buckner. Together, they built a family that stands as a lasting testament to their love and devotion. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by siblings, Winnell, Horace and Doyle Buckner, Esther Lamb, and Nancy Parlette.

He was a devoted father to Debbie (Patrick) McMichael, Mike (Shauna) Buckner, and David (Tawnya) Buckner. He was a cherished grandfather to Jonathan Zimmerman, Sara (Shrishail) Nashi, Patrick (Samantha) Zimmerman, Matthew (Kara) Buckner, Andrew (Abby) Buckner, Stephen (Megan) Buckner, Jacob (Claudia) Buckner, Courtney (Justin) Pearson, Arielle (Ryan) Hall, and Joshua Buckner. He was also a proud great-grandfather to 19 great-grandchildren. Donald is also survived by his sisters, Sharon Huber and Sarah Ruth Bright.

Donald was a man of many passions. He was generous, full of life, and had a vibrant presence that touched the lives of those around him. He held high standards for himself and those with whom he worked, always encouraging others to strive for excellence in all they did.

A service to honor Donald's life will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday August 30 at the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper, Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home. Pastor Jonathan Nelms will officiate. Interment will follow at Cookeville City Cemetery. Visitation for friends and family will be Sunday from 1 - 3 p.m.

Memorial donations in Donald's memory may be made to the Cookeville Rescue Mission (www.cookevillerescuemission.org), reflecting Donald's lifelong commitment to helping others.

The Buckner family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Caroline Bain and Reba Pierce for the compassionate care they provided to Donald.

Donald is remembered as loving, generous, and, as his family lovingly describe him, opinionated. He lived life fully, loved deeply, and graciously shared his wisdom with those around him. His presence will be deeply missed, but the lessons he taught and the love he gave will continue through the generations of his family.

Hooper, Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931) 526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com