Kenneth Ray Buckhanan
July 31, 1942 ~ October 16, 2025
Kenneth Ray Buckhanan, of Palestine, Texas, affectionately known as "Ken" or "Buck" to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, at Palestine Regional Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family, at the age of 83. He was born on July 31, 1942, in Elkhart, Texas, to parents Nolan Buckhanan and Aline Carter. Ken led a life marked by intelligence, courage, and an undeniable sweet tooth that brought a smile to the faces of those who knew him.
Ken dedicated his life to serving his country and community. After an honorable stint in the Navy, he continued his life of service on home soil. His celebrated career as a lawman in East Texas saw him proudly wear the uniforms of the Texas Department of Public Safety-Highway Patrol, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Office of Inspector General, and the Anderson County Sheriff's Office. His unwavering dedication to law and order made him a respected figure, not only among his peers but also within the community he protected.
Ken's interests and hobbies were a reflection of the man he was. He was known for his good judgment and his ability to discern the true nature of those he met. This skill served him well in both his personal and professional life. His pride in his work was evident to all who knew him, and he instilled the value of taking pride in one's work to his children and grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Nolan and Aline Buckhanan, and brother-in-law, Carol Nichols.
Ken leaves behind his beloved wife of 43 years, Linda Buckhanan. Together, they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories. Ken was a devoted father to his daughter, Crystal Milligan, and her husband Bud. He also leaves behind his stepsons, Brad and Bryan Velvin. His sister, Patsy Nichols, shared in the many adventures and milestones that shaped his life. A proud grandfather, Ken's eyes would light up with joy at the mention of his grandchildren, Savannah, Alyssa, and Tyler.
Memorial services with Military Honors to honor the life of Ken Buckhanan will be conducted at two o'clock in the afternoon on Wednesday, the 22nd day of October 2025, in the Rhone Memorial Chapel, where Bro. Kevin Wilmott and Bro. Jason Hoffman is to officiate.
Immediately following the service, all are invited to greet the family during a reception in the nearby Rhone Reflection Room to share remembrances of Ken.
The family will gather later for a private inurnment at Pilgrim Cemetery in Elkhart.
For those desiring, contributions in memory of Ken may be directed to Dogwood Hills Baptist Church, 3400 N US Hwy 79, Palestine, Texas 75801, or The First Baptist Church of Elkhart, 424 W Parker Street, Elkhart, Texas 75839.
Memorial and cremation services for Kenneth Ray Buckhanan are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit his online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with his family.
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I’m going to miss you my dear friend. You and Linda were more like family to us. I’m going to miss our phone calls and our conversations about our families. May the Lord bless Linda and family.
I enjoyed my visits with Ken when he drove cars for me at the Ford store. We were visiting one day and he told me about having to arrest some of my outlaw family members from back in the day! Heck of a story and it definitely showed his courage and dedication to the job. RIP brother.
We are going to really miss our times together. Going out to eat at so many places – Leona, Tyler, Jacksonville, Elkhart, Fairfield just to name a few. I also enjoyed our time on the golf courses in several locations. And helping install your garage door, pressure washing your house and sidewalks, using your tractor. You were a really really good friend but I know I will see you again. Rest in peace brother!
Mr. Buchanan we’ve never met, but along time ago, before I was born, my dad was a sheriff reserve. He was shot while on duty, you personally drove him to the hospital. He still has the bullet in him due to it being so close to a nerve. Thankyou so much for doing that, as well as serving the many positions u did. Rip.
Our prayers and condolences are with you all, Linda, Crystal, Patsy, and all of the grandchildren. We send our love and pray that each of you feel the loving, comforting arms of our Lord in days to come. What peace to know that he is with his mother, Aline and others in heaven, where we will meet again. Love you all.🙏🙏❣️
Kenneth, my older , only male cousin on the Bartee side of my family. He always made me feel safe and loved. Our daddy’s were brothers and worked together farming and ranching as I grew up. Kenneth and Patsy were a large part of my life. I cherish those memories. My 1st year of nursing school in Tyler, I was in too big of a hurry to get home one weekend. I saw the flashing lights of a highway patrolman behind me, oh no, the 1st time I was getting pulled over. Needless to say I was very nervous and when I saw Kenneth at my window I was more nervous. Because I was family! After a stern lecture on driving safety he gave me a warning but I had to tell my Daddy. I later married and moved away from east Texas. Our time was limited when we visited home so I lost touch with extended family and friends. Through the years Kenneth would find a way to stay in touch,his outreach meant the world to me. I look forward to seeing Kenneth in heaven again.
Jeanne Bartee Murray