Obituary of Robert Ray Bucklew

Robert Ray “Buck” Bucklew, Sr., born September 21, 1932 in Tunnelton, WV to Ray and Augusta Wiles Bucklew, went home to be with the Lord in his son’s and daughter’s arms, Bobby and Dixie, on Tuesday, July 3, 2018 after suffering a long illness.  He passed away at his residence in Morgantown.

Robert graduated from Morgantown High School in 1951 before going on to serve in the Korean War as a Sergeant in the United States Army until 1954.  Robert was a Paratrooper in the 101^st Airborne Division.

He married Jocelyn “Joy” McConnaughey in 1954.  He was a talented carpenter, mechanic, and welder (first class) and was employed by Feathers Construction and General Woodworking.  Robert was also a coal miner and served two terms as a District Board Member for the UMWA 31^st District.  He concurrently owned and operated a local neighborhood bar known originally as The Green Parrot before becoming Marilla Inn, and later as Buck’s Place when his son took over the family business.

He was a lifelong member of the VFW Post 9916, American Legion Post 174, National Rifle Association, and the Republican Party.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and his weekly card games with his buddies.  He especially enjoyed spending time with his family, as they were his whole world. 

He is survived by his wife, Joy Bucklew, of 63 years; one sister, Lila Travinski; three children, Pamela Berryman (Bob Berryman), Robert “Bobby” Bucklew, Jr. and Dixie Bucklew; four granddaughters, Jocelyn Bucklew (Joshua Shuttlesworth), Lauren Burns (Ray Burns), Brieonna Christopher Bucklew and Allyson Berryman; and many nieces and nephews. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Frances Ray and Augusta Pearl Bucklew, and six siblings, Virginia Belle Poland, Geraldine Casteel, Donald “Tony” Bucklew, Daniel Bucklew, Betty Lou Schrader and Joann Konchesky. 

Friends and family will be received at Hastings Funeral Home, 153 Spruce Street, Morgantown on Saturday, July 7 from 7-9 pm, on Sunday, July 8 from 2-5 pm and on Monday, July 9 from 9 am until the service at 11 am with Pastor Scott Whetzel officiating. He will then be laid to rest at Beverly Hills Memorial Gardens in Westover.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Robert’s memory to The American Cancer Society, 122 South High Street, Morgantown, WV  26505, and the American Heart Association, 7272 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX  75231-4596.

Send condolences online at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com.