William J. Buckner, 85, of Pulaski, PA, passed away the afternoon of October 1, 2019 at his residence. Born September 18, 1934 in New Castle, he was the son of James H. and Lillian B. (Andrews) Buckner. William was recently preceded in death on September 16, 2019 by his loving wife of 59 years, Margaret S. "Peggy" (Strupcewski) Buckner whom he married on February 1, 1960. He served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict from 1953-1956 as a Sergeant. He received his Bachelor's degree in music and his Teaching Certificate at Mansfield State College and gained employment with Holmdel Township School District as the instrumental music teacher and band director. He was a Third Degree Mason with the Mahoning New Castle Lodge, No. 243. Among his interests he was an avid fisherman, enjoyed recreational flying and competition rifle shooting where he was a New Jersey State Champion. William was of Methodist faith. Surviving are his two sons, Jonathan A.B. Buckner of Pulaski and William A.H. Buckner and wife Diane M. of Allen, Texas; one brother, John B. Buckner of New Castle; a brother-in-law Anthony Strupcewski of Valley Cottage, NY; and three grandchildren, Nicholas Tompkins, Nathaniel Buckner and Zachary Buckner. In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Frank A. Buckner. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 3, from 4:00-7:00 p.m at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle. A funeral service will take place on Friday at 11:00 at the funeral home with the Rev. William LaVelle, Jr. officiating. He will be laid to rest beside his wife in Graceland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS), Attn: Development, 875 N. Randolph St., Ste 225, Arlington, VA 22203 or to a charity of donor's choice. Online condolences may be offered at www.cunninghamfh.com