Charles G. Buckner, born February 29, 1940, and Donella J. Buckner, born February 13, 1941, passed from this life on October 12, 2025. Married on July 8, 1958, they shared 67 years of unwavering devotion, partnership, and love.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Earl R. and Clesta Buckner; his brother, Kenneth Buckner; and brother-in-law, Bill Pointer. Donella was preceded in death by her parents, Eulis E. and Jessie Mae Moore; brothers-in-law Larry Hill, Bill McCleary, Murrell Hill, and James Harper; and sisters Charlene Hill and Eula Mae McCleary.
Together, Charles and Donella built a life rooted in faith, family, and simple joys. They were long-time members of National Heights Baptist Church, where they nurtured deep friendships and a shared spiritual foundation. They found peace and happiness in days spent fishing at the lake, in cheering on their children and grandchildren through every stage of life, and most of all, in the warmth of a home filled with laughter and love.
Charles had a deep appreciation for photography. He was a proud and loyal fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and took great pride in his lawn and garden, tending to it with the same care he showed his family. Charles was retired from Sweetheart Cup.
Donella was best known for her incredible cooking and baking – especially her famous peanut brittle and peanut clusters, which became a beloved holiday tradition eagerly awaited by many. Her kitchen was the heart of the home, and she found true joy in preparing meals that brought everyone together. Donella was a long time independent seamstress and later worked for the Harem & Co.
Their greatest happiness came from time spent with their family. They leave behind a lasting legacy of love through their children: Jody (Rhonda) Buckner, Kent (Roni) Buckner, Sandra (Danny) Felker; grandchildren: Mallory Buckner, Ryan Buckner, Ashlea (Shaun) Belcher, Andrew (Miranda) Felker, and Erin (Chandler) Dye; and great-grandchildren: Carson, Anslea, Lyric, Kaleb, Cloey, Ellie, Emerlee, Eiyla, Cooper, Hudson, Henley, and Haydyn.
They are also survived by sisters, Kathryn Pointer and Robbin (Danny) Kester; sister-in-law, Barbara Buckner; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Visitation will be held at Greenlawn Funeral Home North on Tuesday, October 21, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
The funeral service will take place on Wednesday, October 22, at 11:00 a.m. at Greenlawn Funeral Home North, with burial to follow at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Charles and Donella Buckner to:
National Heights Baptist Church
3050 N. National Ave, Springfield, MO 65803