(MURFREESBORO) Rutherford County lost a good friend. Husband, father, educator, entertainer and later a broadcaster. Carl Buckner passed away Friday (12/4/2020), reportedly as a result of surgical complications and COVID-19.
His on air stint with WGNS began in July, 1995 with a daily program called "Up Front With Carl".
WGNS' Bart Walker recalled, "Carl was a natural--he had a strong knowledge about the history of our community, along with musical talents and a unique sense of humor. His shows began in the WGNS' studios but eventually moved to The Red Rose Dairy Coffee House and Bistro where Carl's historic old ice cream parlor once was located. Carl would take his show on the road and was a regular speaker before social and church groups."
Carl Buckner was a natural story teller, and on his radio show--he shared memories of earlier experiences. As someone noted, "He embellished them slightly and concealed the identity of characters to protect the innocent. Carl was always ready to share with whomever would listen."
Middle TN Roots Went West
Carl was born in neighboring Nashville, but decided to move to Murfreesboro with his family at age 1. He attended Crichlow Grammar School, and his middle school years were at the Training School (now Campus School). Carl's was a tiger for his freshman and sophomore years at Murfreesboro Central High School.
The family then moved to Carlsbad, New Mexico where he completed his junior and senior years. While in high school, Carl was awarded a football scholarship to Baylor University and joined the Navy Reserve. Soon after arriving at Baylor, he was drafted into the regular Navy to serve in the Korean Conflict and was stationed in Memphis, TN, Great Lakes, IL and Jacksonville, FL.
He Met Georgia
After his military service, Carl returned to New Mexico and entered Eastern New Mexico University where he met his wife, Georgia. They were married in 1955 and would have celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary this coming January.
Over the next several years, Carl and Georgia lived in many places throughout Arizona, California, and New Mexico as Carl advanced his career in education.
Moved Back To 'Boro
In 1971, Carl moved his family back to his beloved hometown of Murfreesboro and became the principal of Bradley School. In 1972, Carl became the first principal at Riverdale High School where he had the opportunity to impact many lives in Murfreesboro.
One of the great joys of his life was the fact that he was able to hand each of his own children their high school diploma as their principal.
In 1982, Carl was elected Superintendent of Rutherford County Schools where he served for four years.
In 1988, Carl became the first principal of LaVergne High School from which he retired in 1996.
Family and Services
Carl is survived by his wife, Georgia and three children: Patrece Buckner McCrary, Steve Buckner (Laura) and Dan Buckner (Jennifer) as well as two siblings: Brig. General, Ret. David Buckner of Murfreesboro and sister Esther Gray (Orval) of Woodbury.
He was a member of World Outreach Church.
There will be a drive-thru visitation at Woodfin Funeral Chapel (1488 Lascassas Pike) from 2:00 until 4:00 this coming Wednesday afternoon (12/9/2020). A private burial service will be held.
In lieu of flowers, send donations to the Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Foundation which will directly support the medical staff in the St. Thomas Rutherford COVID Unit. Address donations to Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Foundation, 1700 Medical Center Pkwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37129. Please mention the Buckner Family so your donation will be routed correctly.
CLICK HERE for the complete obituary from Woodfin Funeral Chapel.
Please share your memories of Carl Buckner, e-mail them to news@wgnsradio.com.
