Thomas "Tom" Howard Buckey

Thomas “Tom” Howard Buckey, 89, passed away on October 4, 2026. Tom was born on March 20, 1937, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to the late Howard and Pearl Buckey. He grew up in Johnstown and went on to attend Penn State University, where he majored in journalism and met his future wife, Sally Dunmire. He continued his education at Michigan State University, where he earned a master's degree in journalism.

Tom and Sally began their life together in Lansing, Michigan, before starting their family in Princeton, West Virginia, where they welcomed their two daughters, Laura Louise and Polly Blake. From West Virginia, they moved to Louisville, Kentucky, before eventually settling in New Albany, Indiana, where they raised their daughters.

Tom continued his education at the University of Louisville, where he pursued a career in social work. As a licensed social worker, he spent many years working with individuals and families throughout Louisville, Kentucky, and Southern Indiana. His professional career was dedicated to the field of social services and supporting individuals through life's challenges.

Tom had a lifelong appreciation for theater, the arts, and creative expression. He enjoyed the richness of the performing arts and had a unique perspective on the world around him. Tom was truly one of a kind, with his own distinct personality, interests, and approach to life.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his sister, Jean Doris Buckey VanScoyoc, and his wife of 63 years, Sally Dunmire Buckey, who passed away on November 16, 2025. Together, Tom and Sally shared a lifetime of experiences and raised two daughters, creating a family that now spans four generations.

Tom is survived by his daughters, Laura Louise Buckey Ramos (Sergio) and Polly Blake Boehnlein (Christopher); his grandchildren, Esperanza Nicole Ramos Parrish (Alec), Ashlee Jean Ramos, Blake Christopher Boehnlein, and Maxwell Thomas Boehnlein; and his great-grandsons, Gunnar Ray Parrish and Wilder Hayes Parrish.

A graveside service will be held at Kraft-Graceland Memorial Park on Tuesday, November 24, 2026, at 2:00 pm.

Tom will be remembered for his individuality, his appreciation for theater and the arts, and the experiences that shaped his life. His journey was uniquely his own, and his story will remain part of the family history carried forward by his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His life and legacy will continue through the generations of the Buckey family.