In Loving Memory of La Verne Y. Buckner March 10, 1949 – September 28, 2026

La Verne Buckner passed away peacefully on September 28, 2026, with her loving husband by her side. She was predeceased by Little Caesar 1st and is survived by her husband, James L. Buckner Jr.; her son, James L. Buckner III; her daughter, LaTanya D. Buckner‑Gallagher (Bill); her grandson, Brandon L. Buckner; her great‑granddaughters, MaKenzi M, Brielle L., Alayah M, and Bri’Asia M; and her beloved fur babies, Little Caesar Jr. and Champion. Special niece Michelle Porter.

Born on March 10, 1949, in Cocoa Beach, Florida, La Verne lived a full and vibrant life.  In her youth she was a member of the track and basketball teams at Sodus High School, becoming the first Black cheerleader in the school’s history. She worked at Xerox, Delco, and Kodak.

La Verne and James met on May 30, 1966, at a Memorial Day picnic — the beginning of a lifetime of love. Her life was dedicated to her spouse James, her children Jimmy and LaTanya, her grandson Brandon LaMar, and her four beautiful great‑granddaughters — The Buckner Girls: MaKenzi Mary, Brielle LaVerne, Alayah Monique, and Bri’Ajha Monet. She poured her heart into making sure they felt supported, cherished, and deeply loved. Her compassion extended far beyond her family — she had a gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. She was a safe place to many.

She loved reading and collected Hallmark books. She played softball for the Cougars in a Xerox league and for the Renegades in a city league, holding down left field and shortstop. She was an avid bowler, participating for years in three leagues: Olympic Bowl, Brighton Bowl, and Bowl‑A‑Roll.

La Verne loved baking and cooking big meals for family gatherings, always making sure everyone had enough to take home. She loved gardening and spent as much time in her yard as possible, carrying that love indoors with her miniature plant garden. She loved shopping — especially at Eastview Mall — and she loved her little dogs, all of whom were fiercely devoted to her.

She loved dancing, knew all the latest dances, and wore the newest styles and fashions with pride. Her smile lit up every room she entered.

La Verne’s life was filled with love, joy, style, and strength. She will be deeply missed and forever

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in her memory https://www.alz.org/rochesterny

Family and friends are invited to call at Miller Funeral and Cremation Services (3325 Winton Rd. So.) on FRIDAY (October 9, 2026) from 10 to 11 AM where at 11:30 AM her funeral service will be celebrated.

Family will welcome guest for a repass at RIT Inn and conference center 5257 W Henrietta Rd, NY 14467.