Published: July 8, 2020
Mr. Johnny Buckmon, was born on January 31, 1958, and departed this earthly tabernacle on July 3, 2020, at the North Alabama Medical Center. He was gently taken by angels to be with his Lord on July 3, 2020, and he is now free and safe in the arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Johnny accepted Christ as his personal Savior at a young age and joined the East Florence Missionary Baptist Church. He was a lifelong resident of Florence, Alabama.
Johnny was the son of Etta Buckmon and leaves to cherish his memories Jessie, Arnie V, and Timothy Buckmon, one sister Katherine Buckmon, two special nieces, (Etta Brannon Brown & Melanie Brannon Oliver), Sister in laws, a host of nieces, great-nieces, nephews, great nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends. Johnny had three sisters and three brothers who preceded him in death.
As a young lad, Johnny loved playing basketball. His love for basketball continued on into Junior High and High School. Johnny is a graduate of the Coffee High School Class of 1976. He went on to continue his education at the Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colorado and later transferred back to Alabama and continued his studies at the University of North Alabama. UNA is where he perfected his basketball skills under the coaching staff of the late Coach Bill Jones. He was one of the most valuable players at UNA and received numerous Individual and Team honors and awards from 1979-1981.
His individual and team accolades include:
Individual Honors & Awards
*NCAA (Div. 2) Championship All Tournament Team 1979-1980
*Gulf South Conference All Tournament 1980-1981 MVP
*All Gulf South Conference First Team 1980-1981
*University of North Alabama Men’s Basketball Championship Team 1980
Team Honors & Awards
*NCAA Final Four 1979-1980
*NCAA Regional Championship 1979-1980 and 1980-1981
*Gulf South Conference Tournament Championship 1980-1981
*Gulf South Conference Championship 1980-1981
After graduation from The University of North Alabama, Johnny had the high honor of trying out for the Los Angeles Lakers.
Johnny Earl, as we would call him, was loved, admired, and cherished by his loving family. He was a role model to his family, he inspired many sports fans, and he was admired by all who knew him. His warmth, kind heart, and loving spirit will be deeply missed. His memories will be forever in our hearts.
We, the family, would like to offer Special Thanks to the North Alabama Medical Center, Elkins Funeral Home, RCMH, Friends, Family, and Loved Ones, for any and all acts of kindness rendered during the loss of our beloved brother, uncle, and family member. Our thoughts and prayers are forever with each of you.
Love,
The Buckmon Family