James "Jim" Bruce Buckley Jr.

Born on February 26, 1939, in Nashville to the late Bruce Buckley and Helen Elizabeth Peay Buckley, Jim grew up with a deep appreciation for faith, family, and the outdoors—values that shaped every chapter of his remarkable life.

A proud graduate of East Nashville High School and Lipscomb University, Jim went on to build a distinguished career as Division Manager for Hoechst Roussel Celanese Pharmaceutical Sales. He was known for his integrity, leadership, and the genuine care he showed to colleagues and clients alike.

Jim married his high school sweetheart, Patricia “Pat” Schmitt, a love story that spanned 61 years of unwavering devotion, partnership, and joy. Together they built a family rooted in loyalty, laughter, and shared adventure.

Jim lived life with a spirit of adventure and a drive that never faded. He was a championship water skier, a motocross racer, a tennis competitor, golfer, and a three-time marathon finisher. Yet his truest “happy place” was found in the mountains of North Carolina, especially the trails of DuPont National Forest, where he felt closest to God and nature.

A longtime member of Providence Road Church of Christ, Jim lived his faith quietly but powerfully through kindness, generosity, and steadfast devotion to those he loved.

Jim’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his children, Michael “Buck” Buckley and Patricia “Trish” Norton, and by son-in-law, Larry Norton. He adored his grandchildren—Nick Norton and fiancée Liz Metzemaekers, Logan and Rebecca Norton, and Matt Norton; and great granddaughter, Layla Claire Norton - and delighted in watching them grow, compete, and thrive. His happiest moments were spent on the sidelines, cheering them on, fully present in their lives.

He is also lovingly remembered by extended family members Ken and Shannon Bowles; Trevor and Alex Bowles; Alan, Gina, Justin, Aspen, and Devin Bowles, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

He shared a lifelong bond with his dearest friend, Murray Brown of Hendersonville, Tennessee—a brother in every way that mattered.

Jim Buckley leaves behind a legacy of strength, humility, and wholehearted living. His family and friends will carry forward his example of perseverance, joy, and love.

A special thank you to the staff at Royal Park Matthews & Liberty Hospice-they were his angels.