Donald Corbin Buckelew, Sr.

Donald Corbin Buckelew, Sr., of Covington, passed away July 31, 2021, at the age of 76. Mr. Buckelew was a proud patriot, proudly serving in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam Era, stationed in Goosebay, Labrador, Canada in telecommunications. While in the Air Force, he participated in lightweight boxing. After his service with the military ended, he carved out a career with Southern Bell, Bellsouth, and AT&T corporations for over thirty years of dedicated service. Mr. Buckelew was raised in Columbus and was a resident of Covington since 1976. He obtained an associate degree from Dekalb Technical College. Mr. Buckelew was a devout Christian and member of Oxford Baptist Church since 1980. He was a very active member of the church, ministering to all he could, serving as the Sunday school director for 30 years. Mr. Buckelew also enjoyed singing in the choir; if the doors were open, he was there! During his younger years, Mr. Buckelew was extremely athletic, lettering in every sport. He played in the Minor League Baseball team in Phenix City, Alabama. He loved camping and enjoyed a round of golf. Mr. Buckelew liked being with people and socializing with them. He led a full life and spent his free time with his grandchildren. Mr. Buckelew was preceded in death by his wife, Bobbie Jean Buckelew; son, Donald Buckelew, Jr., parents, Nellie and Roy Newton Buckelew; and brothers, Roy Buckelew, Jr., Harold Buckelew, Robert Buckelew.

Mr. Buckelew is survived by his daughter, Sharon Garner (Chuck); daughter-in-law, Sandy Howard (Tim); grandchildren, Karli Buckelew, Corbin Buckelew, Noah Garner, Emma Garner, Dautry Garner, Melissa Coryell, Matthew Howard; brothers, Reid Buckelew, Tommy Buckelew; and beloved Bichon-poo, Griffin.

A Funeral Service for Mr. Buckelew will be held Tuesday, August 3, 2021, 2:00 P.M., at Oxford Baptist Church, 305 Emory Street NW, in Oxford, with Pastor Kevin Wilhite and Dr. Alan Posey officiating, and interment following in Lawnwood Memorial Park. Friends are invited to visit with the family at Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, 1215 Access Road, in Covington, on Monday, August 2, 2021, from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. Flowers are accepted, but in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Oxford Baptist Church, 305 Emory Street NW, Covington, Georgia 30054.

Governor Brian Kemp’s latest executive order has eliminated restrictions on large gatherings; however, CDC guidelines recommend social distancing (6 feet apart) and wearing of masks while in public.  Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home requests that you observe these recommendations while in our funeral home attending visitations and/or services.