Franklin Elvis Buckner was born May 6, 1943, on Hurricane Creek in Shannon County, Missouri, the son of Andrew Buckner and Esther (Lay) Buckner. He departed this life at his home in Winona on August 19, 2021, while surrounded by his family. He may have lost this battle with cancer, but our very special angel is now healthy and entertaining all the folks in Heaven.
Franklin married Glenna Denning on July 7, 1962. To this union three children were born, Andrew Glenn, Roy William, and Marsha LeaAnn.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Glenna; his parents, Andrew and Esther Buckner; his brother and sister-in-law, Gordon and Carolyn Buckner.
Franklin is survived by his three children, Glenn (Cristy) of Willow Springs, MO; Roy (Janet) of Winona, MO; and Marsha Norris of Ellsinore MO; two brothers, Ernest Buckner of Cassville, MO and Calvin Buckner of Mountain View, MO; two sisters, Gladys (Bob) Hays of Pomona, MO and Jenene Weaver of Winona, MO; six grandchildren, Dustin, Derrick, Crystal, Cayla, Cody, and Bubby; sixteen great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
Franklin was a hardworking man all his life and we might say that he was a “Jack of all trades.” He was a farmer, raising hogs and cattle; a carpenter, building or helping to build many homes and buildings, both in this area and farther away; and he operated a logging business as well as being a land trader. He taught his children to have these skills and a good work ethic and was proud of his family. Franklin was filled with knowledge and wisdom, which led many people to look to him for advice or guidance in a variety of matters. He was an avid storyteller. Many loved listening to his stories of the past and he would tell them in his own special way. Oftentimes, he would tell his stories in such a way as to get laughs from his listeners. He loved laughing and enjoying life, and took great pleasure in playing tricks on his friends from time to time.
Of all his jobs and hobbies, being Grandpa was his favorite. He loved spending time with the grandkids and telling them some “wild” stories, mostly involving them being chased by animals. He truly wanted to do everything he could to help them get on in life. He was thoughtful and loved helping others. He made daily trips to the mill to see Roy and the crew. He would often make sandwiches to take along with cold sodas to the workers, and he loved going to hang out with them on their breaks. He also loved spending time each day at Bubby’s garage. He liked to cook and would fill his crockpot full of meat and vegetables, so others could have a good hot supper. All these things will not be forgotten.
Franklin, always in his bib overalls, was very well known in the community and surrounding area. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.
A celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, August 29, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at the Senior Center in Winona. Cremation arrangements were made under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Winona. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.
