Livonia: At age 51, Chris passed away on Friday, November 1, 2024, at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY. He was born on July 31, 1973 in Warsaw, NY. Chris is predeceased by his father, Norbert Buckley. He is survived by his life companion, Lori A. Phillips, his mother, Wilma Buckley, his children, Kylie Buckley, Kaitlyn Buckley, Kourtney (Jacob) Bills, Garrett Phillips, and Gavyn Phillips, and his sisters, Colleen (David) Cohen and Caryn Buckley, along with several nieces, nephews, and friends.
Chris was a person who lived life to the fullest and with no regrets. He thrived in competition and the thrill of sports from motorcross racing, skiing, football, and wrestling in his youth to getting his pilot’s license after discovering a love for flying as an adult.
Growing up on Buckley Farm, farming became his lifelong passion. Chris enjoyed sharing the stories of learning to drive trucks and tractors before his feet could reach the pedals. This said, becoming a farm manager at Hainsworth Farms was a predictable outcome. For Chris, this role played more than an occupation for him, it formed a second family for more than 30 years.
Christopher Norbert Buckley was a beloved and devoted, son, partner, father, and uncle. He loved his family more than anything and never stopped being a supporter. Chris dedicated years of encouragement to his daughters, as they participated in basketball, lacrosse, and soccer. Upon expanding his family unit to include Lori and her boys, the support system grew. Over the years, they have been able to celebrate countless accomplishments together.
Chris will be remembered as someone who took everything in stride and managed life’s ups and downs with confidence, ease, and a big smile. In any forum, Chris lightened the mood with his sense of humor and the opportunity to engage in a spirited debate. Chris was always someone you could lean on, making himself available whenever friends or family were in need. Chris’s charisma and charm touched the lives of many and the memories shared will allow his legacy to live on far beyond a life that was taken too soon.
Friends and family are invited to call from 4-7 PM on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at the Kevin W. Dougherty Funeral Home, 21 Big Tree Street in Livonia. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be to: Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Fund for Youth Sports, 500 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607. To share a memory or a condolence, please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
Lori, I’m sure today is very hard on all of you, having to say goodbye. We are so sorry we are able to make calling hours. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
I first met Chris in the second grade and we quickly became friiends. We spent many days on his farm riding motorcycles, bikes, swimming, and the occasional tractor ride. We had tons off fun skiing together in high school, and were teamates on the football team. I always admired his fearlessness, and propensity for hard work. As we grew into life and our own families, I was always in awe of his unbridled dedication and support to his children, friends, and life partner.
Chris, ill miss you and thanks for all of the great memories.
My prayers go out to Chris’s family at this time of sadness. I met Chris when he was married to my late husband’s great niece. I was accepted into the family like I had a blood connection. He was there when I needed a shoulder to cry on when my husband died in March, 2009. He was a very caring person and loving person. He will be missed by many. May his family take the fond memories they have of Chris and find the peace they need to go on with their lives. My deepest sympathy is with you. May Chris rest in peace.
Love, Great Aunt Carol
Chris, spend many days at our home with my two boys Jason and Tony: We all loved Chris just like one of our sons. Chris was the life of all days he was around. God bless you Chris and our Lord be with you”
Joseph R. Tonkery
Wilma, Caryn, Colleen, Lori, girls and family,
I am so heartbroken to hear about Chris. It was nice to reconnect with him last year and am more grateful now than ever to have had that opportunity.
He was such a bright light and I have many fond memories with / of him.
I am sorry that I will be out of town in the 14th. Please know my thoughts are with you.
With love,
Barb Miller
So very sorry for your loss. I lost my brother just a few months ago and it’s quite a blow. I know grief and it’s a journey of many feelings. I pray for your strength and spirit to hold onto all the good memories and I hope you can feel and embrace your brothers continued presence in your life.
Rest in peace brother… May the family find comfort in leaning on Christ in this difficult time. We love you guys and will pray for you often… God bless…
I knew and liked Chris when he worked at the Livingston County Highway Department . I am sure his family will miss him. Love and God Bless!!!