Gene R. Buck

Gene R. Buck, formerly of Willcox, died in Tucson on June 14, 2015 at the age of 91. She was born in Prairieton, Indiana on December 19, 1923 to Robert and Della Reynolds. Gene and her parents and sister moved to Tucson from Indiana in 1945, as doctors had suggested that her father move to a drier climate for health reasons. They arrived in Tucson in the middle of summer. It was quite an adjustment. After the move, she attended the University of Arizona to complete her Master’s degree in English. Gene met her future husband while both were teaching high school in the small town of Tolleson, Arizona. Gene and Fred Buck were married on July 19, 1949 in Casa Grande, Arizona. While living in Tolleson, their three children were born’ Fred, Lois, and Alice. The family moved to Florence, Arizona for two years, and then moved to Willcox in 1962, when Fred was hired as the principle of the elementary school. Gene taught English at Willcox High School from 1965 through 1988, where she had a positive impact on many students. She also sponsored many students in the Upward Bound program, making it possible for low-income students to continue their education. In addition, she supported the bilingual theatre (Teatro Indio). In recent years, several of her former students have reconnected with her, which delighted her. Gene is survived by her children: Fred ( Mary) of New Hampshire, Lois (Greg) Sims of Tucson, and Alice of Pasadena, California. Also surviving are 8 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Her sister Lois Wurschinger, of Riverside, California also survives her. Gene was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Fred, and her granddaughter Miranda. Services for Gene were held at the Willcox United Methodist Church on Saturday, June 20. A private burial was later held at Sunset Cemetery. Contributions in Gene’s name may be made to the Willcox United Methodist Church, the Tucson Community Food Bank, or Doctors without Borders. Services entrusted to Westlawn Chapel, Mortuary and Crematory of Willcox, Arizona. On line condolences may be expressed at www.westlawnchapelmortuary.com

Gene R. Buck

December 19, 1923 - June 14, 2015