James Ernest Buckner (Jim) passed from this life June 6, 2025. Jim was born September 2, 1931, in Galveston Texas to Worth Bagley Buckner and Alice Anderson Buckner.  He is preceded in death by his mother, Alice Anderson Harryman, father, Alford John Harryman, son James E. Buckner Jr., brother Gerald Harryman and sister Elaine Coleman. 

Jim was employed by Monsanto Company for many years and also served as a city police officer in Texas city, Texas. He was a 50-year Mason and served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean conflict.  He also served on the Santa Fe I.S.D school board and as Justice of Peace for 12 years.  As Justice of the Peace, he performed many weddings in the community.

Jim will be remembered for his willingness to help others wherever and whenever he could and his love for animals, especially dogs.  Jim had two sons and was the big brother to 5 siblings.    He encouraged his family members to get as much education as possible and helped them find the way to attend college. He was very charitable, believed that everyone deserved a second chance and helped many to get back on their feet.  He loved football, the Dallas Cowboys, the Houston Astros and the Texas Aggies.

He was a champion of the underdog.  He was a sucker for stray dogs and at times was caring for four.   Every evening, he fed the squirrels and wild birds and sat outside on the breezeway with his dogs.  He liked people, lived a simple life and was loved and respected by many.

Jim is survived by his son Jim Jr.'s widow, Rebecca Buckner, son Robert Buckner (Sharon Cloud), granddaughters Elizabeth Erickson (Steve), Sarah Jeter (Joseph), Melissa Mathews (Michael), and Jessica Davis (Andrew), sister Lenora Bruns, brothers Thomas Harryman (Susan) and Wayne Harryman (Debbie).  He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and great grandchildren.   He also leaves behind two dear and faithful friends, Mike McCumber and his special four legged friend,  Barney.

Visitation with the family will be from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. with funeral services beginning at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 12, 2025, in the chapel of Hayes Funeral Home, with Pastor Amy Peters officiating.  Interment will be at Galveston Memorial Park.