Lloyd ‘Pete’ Buckner

Lloyd Ray Buckner was born Dec. 8, 1938, to John and Francis (Hawkins) Buckner and passed away on July 22, 2024, at the age of 85 with his family surrounding him.

Pete, as everyone called him, was born at his childhood home on the Cimarron River between Dover and Loyal. He was the eighth of 10 children.

In 1944, Pete and his family moved southeast of Hennessey to the land he loved so much and resided until his death.

He attended Oak Grove Country School before joining the Hennessey class of 1957 in the third grade.

Pete was very athletic and succeeded in basketball and football where he earned all-district halfback honors as a senior.

Pete was also voted “Mr. Favorite” his senior year and was active in FFA. He looked forward to every class reunion.

In 1959, Pete met and married Marilyn Waters in Loyal. During their 65 years together, they built a wonderful life farming the land given to them by his parents.

Farming was his life, especially dairy, wheat, chickens and pigs. He spent every day milking cows twice a day for 40 years and was a registered Chester White pig breeder.

Along with farming, he owned B&B Magneto & Engine Service with his firstborn child and son, Steve, who was his best friend.

He also held custodial positions at his church and school and managed the Cow Palace for years.

Pete enjoyed going western dancing and would occasionally throw on some Bob Wills music at home. He also loved playing pitch with his family and at dinner parties.

He was a devoted Oklahoma Sooners fan, especially rooting on their football and softball teams.

Pete will be lovingly remembered by his wife Marilyn; son Steve (Diann); daughter Melanie Willson (Mark); grandchildren Brok, Staci, Cody, Colby, Olivia, Ryan and Sailor; brother Randy Buckner of Enid; brother-in-law Charlie and Kristy Waters of Loyal; and a host of extended family and friends.

Greeting him in Heaven are his parents, seven siblings with spouses and multiple other family members.

Memorial services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, at First United Methodist Church officiated by Rev. Sandy Shepherd and Jimmy Berkenbile. Arrangements are by Cordry-Gritz Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family has chosen the COPD Foundation for charitable donations in memory of Pete.