Michael James Buckley

Michael James Buckley, lovingly known as Mike, was born on July 2, 1938, in Brooklyn, New York. A proud Brooklyn native, Mike lived a life defined by loyalty, hard work, and family devotion. Mike dedicated 52 years of service to New York Telephone and was also a skilled electrician who could seemingly fix anything that was broken. He had the willingness to help anyone in need, whether it meant repairing something, driving family and friends wherever they needed to go, or even flying across the country to be there when needed. He was steady, resilient, and always dependable. He proudly served in the Army National Guard beginning in 1956. Mike carried that same sense of duty and commitment throughout his entire life.

On September 16, 1967, Mike married a beautiful Irish lass from County Cork, Agnes Lynch Buckley. Together they built a beautiful family and shared 24 years of marriage before Agnes passed away from cancer on March 13, 1992. Mike later found love again and married Ellen Clarke of Haverstraw, New York, on November 28, 1998. Together, Mike and Ellen enjoyed their retirement splitting time between Rockaway Beach, New York, and Naples, Florida, while traveling the world together.

Mike was a devoted father to Michael, Maureen Chiriguayo (Victor), and Susan (Timothy Dymond). He was a cherished grandfather to Erin, Conor, Shealagh, Clare, Kiera, Shawn, and Thomas, and a proud great-grandfather to Alana. Mike also leaves behind Ellen’s children Ellen Marie, Marypat, Joanne and Michael as well as many beloved nieces and nephews, great-grand nieces and nephews, and step grandchildren, all of whom knew they could always count on him.

Mike was a generous and loving big brother to Robert (Maureen), Donal (Lee), and his baby sister Patricia. A proud Irishman, Mike loved Irish music, history, and the Brooklyn Dodgers. Mike’s father was a trolley and subway conductor in NYC which led to Mike having a lifelong fascination with trains and trolleys. He was a member of a model train club and became a licensed trolley conductor. In retirement, he volunteered at the Seashore Trolley Museum in Kennebunkport, Maine, where he operated electric trolleys and shared his enthusiasm with visitors and fellow volunteers alike.

More than anything, Mike will be remembered for his loyalty, strength and unwavering presence in the lives of those he loved. He was the person people called when they needed help, advice, or simply someone they could rely on. His strength, warmth, and generosity leave a lasting legacy that will continue through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and remembered forever.

The family will receive friends Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 4-8pm at Wanamaker & Carlough Funeral Home, 177 Rt. 59 Suffern, NY 10901. A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, June 5, 2026 at 10 am, in the Chapel at Ascension Cemetery in Airmont, NY. Burial at Ascension Cemetery will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Vitas Hospice in Collier County, Florida at https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E232399&id=1