Loretta Buckner

Loretta was born May 10, 1925 in Detroit, MI.

Loretta led a full, purposeful, engaging and blessed life. She was vivacious, feisty and outspoken. She was definitely a truth-teller. Anyone who met her walked away chuckling, usually shaking their heads as she spared no words. Brilliant thing about her though, she softened the hardest of hearts, and earned the respect of everyone who crossed her path.

Loretta was married to Frederick E. Buckner for over 30 years until he passed in 1981. They had two children, Frederick Jr. and JoAnn. Over the years, while living in the Brewster Projects in Detroit, the family, neighbors and beloved friends, had many, many, celebrations, get-togethers, bid whist competitions, basketball games at Brewster Center, rent parties and street dances. Most gatherings took place at their home until a family demise required a move to Highland Park.

Loretta traveled often with friends and family. She attended many out-of-town family reunions and took several cruises. She loved to take pictures making sure to document and catalogues her family, friends and her many adventures. She designed and created beautiful home décor and fabulous outfits. She was an ultimate DIYer. Loretta worked for the Highland Park Public Schools and received a Special Tribute from the State of Michigan for 23 years of service and perfect attendance.

In 2000, she moved from her Highland Park home into the McGivney-Bethune Senior Apartments in Detroit. While there, she was active with committees and did gardening and holiday decorating. She made several very special friends. She joined New Prospect Missionary Church.

Loretta was grateful and blessed to have amazing health, having never been seriously ill. She was lovingly referred to as Nana and was blessed to have grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren - the moniker of Nana, remained.

She graced this earth for 96 amazing years. She left this earth surrounded by love and light after a sudden and fairly quick episode. In true “Nana” form, she asked for all who loved her to honor her wishes of forgoing any formal funeral or memorial services. She always said, show me love, bring me flowers and share memories with me while I’m here to enjoy them. Live your life with purpose, laugh often, be kind and patient with those you encounter...and in her honor we shall!

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.HarryjWillRedford.com for the Buckner family.