Willie Charles Buckner

On Tuesday, December 27, 2022, our loving husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Mr. Willie Charles Buckner, passed away at Covenant HealthCare Cooper, at the age of 82 years. He was born July 4, 1940, in Goodwater, Alabama to Otis and Sarah (Thomas) Buckner.

Willie Charles Buckner, affectionately known as “Mr. Charlie,” was a member of St. Luke CME Church under the leadership of Pastor Joyce Redfearn. He served on the Steward Board and was a member of the Male Chorus. Willie was employed at Saginaw Steering Gear with over 19 years of service. He graduated from Alexander City School and furthered his education at Delta College.

Willie enjoyed gardening, repairing vehicles, watching sports games, and boxing. His favorite shows were, “The Price is Right,” and old westerns.

Mr. Charlie was famously known for his annual 4th of July birthday cookouts; through his generosity, everyone was invited, always ate well, and was guaranteed a good time. He enjoyed cooking, and some of his specialties included Greens, Chili, Steak, and Squash.

Willie leaves to cherish loving memories his wife of over 50 years, Delores; twin daughters, Dawn and Denise Buckner; one granddaughter, Aeriana Olivarez; Saginaw, Michigan; two grandsons, Darrion Buckner, Saginaw, Michigan, and Ta’Varion Burrell, Fort Wayne, Indiana; two great-grandsons, Jaden Buckner, and Mario Dominguez Jr.; three sisters-in-law, Earlene (Robert) McNair, Yvonne (Dennis) Mullins, Saginaw, Michigan, and Gwendolyn (John) Letts, Grand Rapids, Michigan; special nephew, Patrick (Christina) Wilson;  and special friends, Willie and Carlene Bradley, Vivian Barnes, Franklin Norman, and Cheri Smith, Saginaw, Michigan; a host of nieces and nephews.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Otis and Sarah Buckner; three sisters, Lucille, Sarah Mae, and Lorienne Buckner; five brothers, Leon, Dan, Edward, Billy Joe, Louis and Sussie Mae Buckner; father and mother-in-law, Irvin and Mamie West.

The family wishes to express our sincere appreciation for all your love and support during our time of bereavement. Special thanks to Ivan E Phillips and the Staff of Paradise Funeral Chapel, Covenant Healthcare Cooper, Fresenius Kidney Care and Staff (Saginaw Riverside), Willie and Carlene Bradley, and Patrick and Christina Wilson.