Obituary

Jack Malcolm Buckner, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away on August 3, 2025, at the age of 102, reuniting with his beloved wife of 79 years, Florence, who passed away in 2023, at the age of 98. Married for nearly eight decades, Jack and Florence built a life grounded in faith, family, and love that will continue to inspire generations.

Jack was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, with his older sister Doris, to parents Page and U.G. Buckner. A natural leader, he attended Fulton County High School, where he served as Captain of ROTC A and Senior Class President. At just 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Military as an Aviator Cadet, and by age 20, he had earned the rank of Captain. During World War II, Capt. Jack Buckner bravely flew more than 50 missions as a lead bombardier on B-17 bombers with the U.S. Army Air Corps. He risked his life over Europe, including dangerous flights over Germany, and played a role in hastening the defeat of Rommel’s army. For his service, he was awarded the Air Medal ten times and the prestigious Oak Leaf Cluster for meritorious achievement. Later on, he would be promoted to Lt. Colonel in Reserve. His testimony is preserved today in the World War II History Museum in New Orleans, Louisiana.

While on leave in Texas, Jack met Florence, the love of his life. They married just a few months later, on February 25, 1944. Together, Jack and Florence settled in Georgia, where Jack pursued studies at Georgia Tech, worked for Armco Steel, and eventually along with Florence’s help, started Abuck Building Systems. Through their efforts the business became a thriving one and would be later purchased by their son Terry, who continues to operate it today.

Jack and Florence shared a love of adventure and traveled the world together, while also enjoying golf and the simple joys of family life later on. Some travels were based around Jack’s love of hunting and mission work.

A devout Christian, Jack served faithfully on the board of Logoi Ministries. Florence, equally strong in faith, passed on to her children and grandchildren the importance of Scripture and living with humility. Together, they were founding members of Perimeter Church.

They had a grand appreciation for the Arts. Jack was a gifted painter while Florence always kept films and music alive in the home. Jack’s love of entertainment brought him to help launch Movie Guide, serving on the board of directors for many years, which would go on to become one of the largest faith-based publications for film in the industry.

Lasting memories of Florence’s cooking that brought everyone to the table for every holiday and Jack’s tending to his garden growing the best tomatoes in the south, these moments stick with their family forever. Jack and Florence’s legacy is one of enduring love, faith, and devotion to family. Their nearly century-long lives were a testimony to God’s grace, and their memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew them.

They are survived by their three children Jimmy, Paula, Terry; eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren.