Waylon Gene "Buck" Buchanan Jr

Waylon Gene "Buck" Buchanan Jr., born on February 8, 1963, in Harlingen, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on October 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Known for his larger-than-life personality and infectious warmth, Buck touched the lives of many with his genuine compassion and boundless generosity. The beloved son of the late Waylon Gene "Coach Buck" Buchanan Sr. and Ila Mae Buchanan, Buck was raised with a deep respect for family values and community engagement. His father, his wife Cheryl, and his nephew Robert Benjamin East predeceased him, but their memories lived on in his stories and in his heart. Buck's life journey was marked by love and commitment. He was first married to Teresa, with whom he had his daughter Erin Buchanan-Craver. On September 1, 1987, he married Cheryl, and together, they raised two more daughters, Dora Booth and Chloe Buchanan. After Cheryl's passing, Buck found companionship and joy with Jill, his loving wife who stood by him until his last days. A proud graduate of Queen City High School, class of 1981, Buck was a man of many talents. His career spanned various fields, including HVAC, general maintenance, and coaching. His passion for coaching was particularly evident as he actively involved himself in his daughters' softball teams, imparting not only skills but life lessons that they carry with them to this day. Buck's leadership extended beyond his family and into his community. As president of the Cypress Valley Water Supply Board, he was dedicated to improving local infrastructure and services. His commitment to service was further demonstrated in his longtime role at MISD sporting events, where he greeted everyone with a hearty handshake and his signature great big hug. A man of diverse interests, Buck was an accomplished pool player, participating in local leagues and tournaments with enthusiasm and skill. His love for the game was surpassed only by his love for people, a trait that endeared him to friends and family alike. Those who knew him best knew they could count on his unwavering support and affection. Family was the cornerstone of Buck's life. He leaves behind his cherished wife Jill, his daughters Erin Buchanan-Craver, Dora Booth and her husband Broc, and Chloe Buchanan, his step-daughter Kimberly Hopkins and his adored grandchildren Sally, Hazel, Skyler, and Tyler. His mother Ila, sisters Sandra East and Connie Buchanan, and nieces Alysia East and her children, Leigh Ann Sanchez and her daughter, and Laci Knabenshue, also survive him, along with an extended family who will forever remember his love. A celebration of Buck's life will be held on November 8, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the River Crossing Cowboy Church, located at 475 Henderson Schoolhouse Road, Marshall, TX. In lieu of flowers, please send plants or we kindly suggests that donations be made in Buck's memory to a charity of your choice, reflecting his generous spirit and commitment to helping others. Waylon Gene "Buck" Buchanan Jr. will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and community will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.