Shirley Ladean Buckley

Shirley LaDean Buckley, a devoted mother, grandmother, educator, and attorney, passed away on April 2, 2026, in Huntington Beach, California, just days after celebrating her 90th birthday. She was born on March 28, 1936, in Washington, Iowa.

Shirley was a woman of remarkable strength, intelligence, and determination. She pursued her education with passion, graduating from high school in Washington, Iowa, before earning her master’s degree from Chapman College and later attending law school at UCLA. In 1976, she proudly passed the California Bar, embarking on a distinguished career in law. Prior to her legal career, she inspired many as an English teacher, sharing her love of language and learning.

She was married to Lawrence Buckley, with whom she shared part of her life before their eventual divorce. Shirley was a loving and dedicated mother to her son, Anthony L. Buckley, and her daughter, Rebecca C. Powalisz.

Shirley found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She cherished her trips to Hawaii, found comfort in reading, and took pride in gardening. Above all, she treasured time spent with her grandchildren and the companionship of her many beloved pets throughout the years.

She is survived by her son, Anthony L. Buckley; her daughter, Rebecca C. Powalisz; her son-in-law, Kenneth B. Powalisz; and her grandchildren, Anthony M. Buckley, Zachary S. Powalisz, Caitlyn C. Powalisz, and Ashley R. Buckley.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Cora Raymond and Roy Henry Raymond; her sisters, Mildred “Millie” Peters, Marleen Dochterman, Judy Hedger, and Lorena Elston Neufeld; her brothers, Marion “Jake” Raymond, and triplet brothers Eldon, Weldon, and Robert Raymond; her former husband, Lawrence Buckley; and her grandson, Troy Buckley.

Shirley will be remembered for her resilience, her sharp mind, her passion for justice, and her unwavering love for her family. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the family she cherished so deeply.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the California-Hawaii Elks Major Project (CHEMPI) at www.chea-elks.org/make-a-donation, or directly to the family to assist with healthcare expenses incurred on Shirley’s behalf.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.