Larry Dean Buckley

Larry Dean Buckley, affectionately known as "Deanie," was born on December 12, 1952, in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, to James Rome Buckley and Mother Jezeree Gordon Buckley.

Larry was raised in a sanctified home where discipline, love, faith, and laughter formed the foundation of his upbringing. At an early age, with the permission of his parents, Mrs. Letha Bryant faithfully took him to St. Paul AME Church each Sunday, where his love for the Lord began to grow. Later, he was baptized and united with Tate Temple Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Elder O. N. Dennis, continuing his spiritual journey.

He received his education through the Arkadelphia Public School District and was a proud graduate of Peake High School. Following graduation, he attended college for a short time before answering the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. The discipline instilled in him during his childhood served him well throughout his military career, including his service during the Vietnam era.

While serving in the Marines, Larry earned the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal, serving with distinction as a Rifleman. He faithfully fulfilled his military obligation and was honorably discharged.

Larry understood the value of hard work from an early age. As a young boy, he delivered newspapers for the Arkadelphia newspaper to earn spending money, a testament to his strong work ethic that remained with him throughout his life.

Known for his smooth personality, warm smile, and undeniable charm, Larry was often described as a true ladies' man. His confidence, sense of humor, and easygoing spirit naturally draw people to him.

Throughout his working years, Larry was employed by International Paper and later by Browning Roofing Company in Houston, Texas. More importantly, he answered an even higher calling by becoming an ordained minister. Larry had a deep passion for street ministry, believing that God uniquely qualified him to reach those who were struggling because he had once walked the same roads himself. He often shared that no one could minister to people on the streets like someone whom God had delivered from the streets and transformed into an ambassador for His Kingdom.

Larry had a love for music and could often be heard making up his own songs. He possessed a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, selling clothing, hats, and just about anything else. Friends often joked that if Larry didn't already have what you were looking for, he could certainly find it. His resourcefulness, determination, and gift for connecting with people made him a natural businessman

On Sunday, July 12, 2026, Larry peacefully departed this earthly life at the John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital, leaving behind great memories.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Rome Buckley and Mother Jezeree Gordon Buckley; his siter, Mamie Sue Heard and his nephews, Paul Buckley, Jarrett Bradford, Jeffery Stulgate, Anthony Stulgate, Kevin Stulgate and Adrian Stulgate.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his beloved children: Christopher J. Buckley of Joliet, Illinois; Rebecca Moore of Steward, Illinois; and Larry D. Buckley, Jr. of Chicago, Illinois. He also leaves three cherished grandchildren; seven sisters: Barbara Carter of Arkadelphia, AR, Joyce Johnson of Arkadelphia, AR, Mary Ann Caradine of Arkadelphia, AR, Nancy (Ronnie) Hall of Arkadelphia, AR, Patricia Walker of Arkadelphia, AR, Evangelist Letri (James) Bradford of Georgetown, SC, and Bonnie (Tim) Jones of Arkadelphia, AR ; two brothers, Gyronne Buckley of Arkadelphia, AR, and James Buckley of Hot Springs, AR; his uncle, Cleveland Gordon of Hot Springs, Arkansas; a very special great-nephew, Karter Jones; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and all whose lives were touched by his kindness, laughter, and faith.