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Sara Buckley Obituary
A horrific affliction of breast cancer could never take her beauty or grace, nor compromise her legacy of being the mother of two children who are her greatest joy and accomplishment. Sara thought her struggle with cancer well worth the effort if it could bring just one person to saving faith in Jesus, whom she embraced on Wednesday, August 1, 2007.
In addition to Meredith and Joshua, Sara is survived by her husband, Neil; her parents, Lee and Sally Biggers of El Cajon, Calif.; sisters, Lee Anne Ruhlman, of Seattle, Wash., and Katherine Long, of Atlanta, Ga.; her mother-in-law, Irene Devine, and father-in-law, Edward Buckley.
A celebration of Sara's life will be conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 4, 2007, at Heritage Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Gerald Kroll officiating. A reception will follow the service at the home of Mike and Sarah Dunlop, 425 New Britain Drive, Lynchburg.
Those wishing to make memorials please consider the JH Ranch, 402 Office Park Drive, G23, Birmingham, AL 35223.
Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family, (434) 237-9424. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.tharpfuneralhome.com.
Memories and Condolences
for Sara Buckley
Jim & Julie Wiseman
August 27, 2007
Dear Neil, Sally and Lee, Lee Anne, Katie and the Buckley family,
Sara touched all of us in a wonderful way. She was almost like one of our own children, going on water skiing, snow skiing and camping trips with us. We enjoyed her beautiful personality and her love for God. She will be missed terribly, but through our sorrow, we are comforted that she is with Jesus and no longer suffering. Now our prayers are for all of you who have been left behind, and especially for Meredith and Joshua who have lost their mother at such a young age. We pray you will find comfort and the strength to continue on. Our hearts and our thoughts are with each one of you.
Heather & Josh Lieurance
August 23, 2007
We have been praying for Sara's healing since Lee Anne called over 4 years ago and told me about her cancer. While God didn't answer our prayers in the way we had hoped, He did show us something even greater: His sufficiency through difficult circumstances. The Biggers family has always been such an amazing example of godly faith, and I am so thankful to know them and to have known Sara. Our prayers continue for the comfort of the entire Biggers and Buckley families. May the faith that has brought you this far carry you into the compassionate, open arms of our Savior and He will carry you through this great loss! May the knowledge that Sara is now healed and that you will join her one day in heaven be a comfort to you.
Jane Redmond
August 22, 2007
Neil, Having known your sister, Lorrene, since she came to live in Indianapolis I feel that I have known the strength of Sara and your family. And as I read the many tributes to her I realize what a special person, wife and mother she was. I am sure that all of your lives have been blessed by her. May you and your family find peace.
Gayla Henderson
August 22, 2007
Sara was one of my daughter's best friends all through Jr. High and high school here in San Diego. They kept in touch after Sara moved away. We all loved Sara, and will miss her. She was so full of joy and love. We will remember all the ways she touched our lives.
Bruce Adams
August 22, 2007
Neil I am so sorry to hear about Sara. What a sweet person she was. We pray that God's grace will cover and protect you and the children. Our house in El Paso is always open to you guys.
Bruce and Tina Adams
Greg Patterson
August 20, 2007
The mind whirls when it tries to sum up the life of a person in a single entry. How can you put into words the sparkle in someone's eyes without having seen them? How does the way a smile chase the chill from the corners of a room look on paper? Words and description fail when detailing and extolling the actual virtues of a mother and wife. To be a child of Sara's or her husband-they could tell you. Peace be with you Sara. Peace and love and comfort to you Neil and your children. May the prayers of friends, family and faithful ease your pain.
Marylou Matthews
August 19, 2007
Sara and I met while on reserve as flight atttendants for Delta in Atlanta. What a blessing! Our time together was so much fun!! Running, going to church, going for Mexican food, praying together. Often, people thought we were sisters. I felt honored! What a complement for me. Anyway, Neil, God bless you and your family. I am heartsick, but take comfort knowing she is with Jesus, where we all want to be. And we will be there soon.
Love and prayers.
Dwight Nielsen
August 17, 2007
I just went to my 20th high school reunion (CHS - class of '87) where I just learned of Sara's passing. It didn't really hit me until today, and I realize now how much I miss her. When I was a senior, she was a sophomore, yet we had a special connection, which was unusual for a band-buddy and a cheerleader! I used to tutor her in geometry, and every minute I spent with her was cherished. Neil, I never met you but I hope your time with her was wonderful. She wrote in my yearbook, "Pray that there will be a great guy for me!" Ashamedly, I can't say that I ever did pray for that, but today I pray for you. She was so remarkably beautiful and my memories of her will stay with me forever.
Rhett and Susan Draluck
August 14, 2007
Our daughter Tabitha loved Sarah and babysitting for your lovely two children. We moved Tabitha down to Florida shortly before Sarah went home to be with the Lord. We just want to express our sympathy and thoughts of your family for the coming days.
Deb Smith
August 13, 2007
Neil,
There is nothing I can say to take away your pain, and I wish-even for a minute-that I could. My heart aches for you and your family and i grieve with you! Even though we dont work together anymore, you are just as close to my heart as you always were. I regret never getting to meet Sara, but because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and her belief, she is my sister and one day I will meet her...to see her in her perfect body...no more pain or suffering or tears. Until then, I will leave you with a favorite verse from Psalm 30:5 "Weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning". Until that "night" is over, I am praying for the strength for you to endure. You are all in my prayers. Please contact me for anything.
Sara
Lesa (Hamilton) Miller
August 11, 2007
Sara was one of my best friends at Christian High, my heart is so saddened by the news I just heard today. She has always been in my heart throughout the years and I so hoped to see her again soon. "Friends are Friends Forever" a song we used to sing together often. My heart goes to your family, she had the most cherished smile and spirit of anyone I know. I will remember her always. I have attached a photo album page that we did together of us many years ago.
Sara, I love you more!
Brian Hughes
August 10, 2007
Neil: My prayers and thoughts are with you and your wonderful children: I am more sorry than I can say. Your friend, Brian Hughes
Merv Hartman
August 9, 2007
I graduated with Sara from Christian High School. My sister played softball with Sara and Katie, and I was close friends with Lee Anne. What I remember most about Sara was her tremendous spirit and will. What I remember most about her family was their love for each other and the Lord, and how much I admired each of them so much. This family inspired all of us to be better people.
inga carter
August 8, 2007
Sara and I attended school together from Jr. high through high school. Although we had different friends, we would all come together to share sleepovers and fun!!
It makes me so sad to hear that such a young and vibrant woman was taken so young. I know Sara fought her disease for a long time and that is such a testament to who she was as a person!
Rest assured Biggers/Buckley family your beautiful daughter, wife, mother is resting in the arms of Jesus tonight.
My prayers are with you!!
Lauri (Rohrer) Richmond
August 8, 2007
What a privilege to have known Sara, Lee Anne, and Katie for so many years. I have many wonderful memories of growing up together. I have often had Sara in my thoughts and prayers. She was so sweet and full of life. I will continue to pray for Neil and the children as well as the Biggers and Buckley families.
Christina Haynes
August 8, 2007
I went to Christian High for my senior year and have many fun memories of Sara. From doing skits together at the retreat to Disneyland. She was a ray of sunshine.I am so sad to hear of her passing. My heart goes out to her family.
Mari Palafox
August 8, 2007
My husband Rene and I are saddened to hear of your loss. We had both coached Sara in softball and taught her in class in junior high and high school. She was a joy with her wonderful smile and sense of humor and an example of Christ's love even then. We pray that God will carry you through this difficult time and provide for you in ways that only He can. Please know that you are in our prayers.
Lynda Jensen
August 8, 2007
To the Biggers and Buckley families,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are so sorry for your loss. Sara was always a bright spot in this world. God's love was evident in her smile and life.
She will be greatly missed.
Nahum 1:7.
All our love,
Paul and Lynda Jensen
Stacey Patsko
August 8, 2007
Sara was such a wonderful young woman and mature beyond her years when we played softball together in high school. Always rising above the petty squabbles that teenage girls sometimes have, she was a friend to everyone and a real example of Christ's love. What a joy to know that she is with her Father in Heaven even in the midst of this painful time for those who loved her most. My sympathies.
Tanya Blankenship
August 7, 2007
Neil, I am very sorry for your loss. I didn't know your wife but I used to be a nurse in the ER and I've heard others talk of how wonderful she was. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you and your children.
Tanya Blankenship
Kelley Cash
August 7, 2007
Dr. Buckley my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. May God bless you and your family and give you comfort in knowing that you have all the support from your friends,family and coworkers. Let us know if there's anything we can do for you.
Todd McCormack
August 7, 2007
I knew Sara for 22 years and she always remained so consistent, solid, positive, happy, hopeful and faithful. There is no doubt in my mind that she was an amazing mother and wife as much as she was an amazing friend to me throughout high school and beyond. She exuded everything Christ teaches us to be and never seemed to waiver from or doubt his plan for her life. I learned a lot from her and looked up to her in many ways. I would have considered myself fortunate to have met a woman like her during my lifetime, but to be called her friend was a true privilege. I'm praying for Neil, their children and their families.
Peggy Hamlet
August 7, 2007
I didn't have the privilege of meeting Sara but kept her on the church prayer sheet weekly and prayed for her regularly. Her fight has been an inspiration to all of us. We will continue to pray for Neil, Merdith, Joshua and her parents.
Sanford and Marlo Hawkins
August 7, 2007
Sara was a blessing to us all and a perfect example of God's love and grace. We feel blessed to known her. Our love and prayers go out to Neil and the children and for her family.
Jennifer Staton
August 7, 2007
I did not know Sara very well personally,but I have spent many afternoons on the playground with Irene, Josh, Sarah, Andrew, Connor, and Owen. I am so sad for all of you, Sara was blessed to have such a wonderful family of friends to be with her and her children through all of this. My prayers are with you all.
Roxanne Parker - Contreras
August 6, 2007
I was good friends with LeeAnne, Saras sister, growing up. Sara was such a shining angel. I have not seen her for many years but am praying for her family.
Carmen Clark
August 6, 2007
"Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the Nations; I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge." Psalm 46:10 & 11. I am glad to hear that Sara is no longer hurting. And I pray that you will experience the Peace that only Christ can give. Love in Christ, Carmen.
Helen Barnhart
August 6, 2007
So very sorry for your loss! Sara's friendship with my daughters as they grew up together was a blessing we treasure.
Dottie Rhodes
August 6, 2007
My brother (Jon) and I went to junior high with Sara. Although I didn't know her very well, I am sad to hear of her passing.
Karen Richwine
August 6, 2007
Dear Family,
I have been praying for Sara and you all since she first was diagnosed. Even though I am left with the question, "why?", I know the One who has that answer. My prayer now is that the One that has the answers comforts you now and in the future. I hurt with you.
Love and Comfort in His Name,
Kendle (Clarke) Figueroa
August 6, 2007
Sara and I have been friends since Jr. High, but our friendship ignited while working at JH Ranch. I am blessed that we remained very close friends since then. We have shared such special moments together, from graduating college, getting married and the birth of our children. There will be an emptiness in my life without her here. Neil, you know how much your family means to ours and we will be faithful to pray for you, Meredith and Josh as well as your parents and the Biggers. All my love!
John Ellers
August 6, 2007
I am very sorry for your loss. Sara will be greatly missed. But she is with the Lord now and she is happy. God Bless her Family. John Ellers Formerly El CAjon Ca.
Brad and Gwen Eungard
August 6, 2007
We celebrate Sara's life and rejoice in her race well run. Oh that we could all run with as much poise and grace as she did! We love you, Neil, and will continue to pray for you, Meredith, and Josh.
Shanna and Jonathan Walker
August 5, 2007
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Kara Lamb
August 5, 2007
I had the privilege of taking care of Sara every time she was admitted to the Oncology Unit @ VBH. Sometimes when she couldn't sleep I would sit in her room and talk with her for long periods of time, until she'd get sleepy. It's moments like these that I cherish as a nurse. I really enjoyed getting to know Sara.
Her memorial service was very touching. It was nice to get to know her more through the words of her friends and family. What a beautiful legacy she has left behind. I've been thinking alot lately what kind of legacy I will leave behind. Alot of what was said of Sara I pray similar things will be said about me. Sara, thank you for touching my life, even after you've gone home to be w/ the Lord.
Roolchane and Mark Newcomb
August 5, 2007
Sara is a symbol of the real Christian. I always saw her with a smile. Every time I came to clean her house she would always say "this day is beautiful, Irene is amazing, you don't have to do this or that" she already did.
I don't have words to say how strong a faith she had. I don't like to hear people blame life about little things. Sara didn't blame anything,she celebrated life to the fullest. I will always cherish the memory of the short time I was able to know her. We will continue to pray for the family. Please let us know of anything we can do for you.
Julie JENSEN
August 5, 2007
Sara: Elementary, Jr. & Sr High, sleep-overs, church snow & waterski trips, soccer, softball, "The Glo-Glo's", JH Ranch California 1988, & thousands of memories in and around those events. Growing up, you, Leeanne & Katie were like sisters to Jody, Carie & me. You were always inspiring & aspiring to be your best. You made a positive difference in this world. See you when I get there, sister.
My prayers for peace go out to the Biggers and Buckley families. Stay strong & keep Sara's legacy alive for all to remember.
Christina Smith
August 5, 2007
I didn't know Sara, but I had to write.I just wanted to say that I'm so sorry that she had to die so young & leave her childern.This broke my heart.I'm glad to know she's in Heaven with God.Now she can say hi to my Granparents for me.God be with her family. God Bless you all! I'm from Lynchburg, Va. Christtina Smith 31 yrs old with a 4 month old son.
Bill and Anna (Baxter) Drew
August 5, 2007
Anna and I were very sad to hear of Sara's passing. The Biggers were my neighbors growing up, and I went to school with Sara and Katie. She was always a kind and gentle person. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you, and take comfort in knowing that she is in the presence of the Lord.
Carl & Milea Menckhoff
August 5, 2007
Sara was a great woman and will truly be missed. Our deepest sympathies to Neil and family.
Carie Breneman
August 4, 2007
I've known Sara since we were 5 or 6. We grew up together in the same schools and the same church. She was a great person and always had a smile on her face. I send my sympathy to all her family,
Carie (Jensen) Breneman (the Middle East)
Bob Sullivan
August 4, 2007
The service this morning in Sara's honor was without question the most loving celebration of life I have ever attended. The love of Jesus Christ bathed each of us and the depth of Sara's faith became so real to those of us not fortunate to have known her well. She touched so many lives with the love of her Savior. Sara lived well and leaves a testimony of faith in our Lord to comfort her husband and children. Well done, good and faithful servant.
Michael & Laurie Hausam
August 4, 2007
Sara was a dear person who was loved by everyone she knew. We went to CHS together and I'm so glad to have been her friend. I'll look forward to seeing her in a little while in Heaven.
Please accept my deepest sympathies. My wife and I will praying for the whole Biggers/ Buckley family.
Pam VanAusdal
August 4, 2007
Neil, Peace be with you and your family in this time of grief. Take comfort in our God and knowing that she is truly in a better place-Paradise. God Bless you!
Suzy (Wolitarsky) Roberts
August 4, 2007
I was a friend of Sara's in both high school and college. If I close my eyes I can still picture her warm, beautiful smile. She was such an example of Christ's love and I know that she touched many lives along her journey. My prayers are with you, Neil and your children as well as Sara's extended family. May God comfort you during this difficult time.
Roxy Dickinson
August 4, 2007
Dr. Buckley, My prayers are certainly with you and your family in the coming days. I wish I could have known Sara. Sincerely,
Linda Gober
August 4, 2007
I met Sara,Meredith and Sally, during our visits to Lynchburg. Lila Peake, our daughter, has kept us informed about the events in your lives, and I want you to know that you have been in our prayers daily, and you will continue to be in days to come. Sara must have touched many lives in a dynamic way by her strength, her determination, and her faith in God. Even though her life was brief, it made a tremendous impact on many. As a mother and a grandmother, we share your loss.
Jeff & Karan Rowan
August 4, 2007
Neil, Meredith and Josh, our thoughts are with you and your entire family. Sara was a wonderful person and it was our privilege to be her neighbor. Please know we are always available to help in any way.
Dan & Nicole Taylor
August 4, 2007
Dear Neil, News of your grief has reached us half way around the world. Know that our prayers are with you and your precious ones.
Sara has finished her race and has been welcomed into the rest of her Father. One day soon we will all be together again. With much love.
Jennie Henderson/Taylor
August 4, 2007
I love you
David Baldwin
August 3, 2007
I will miss Sara and her gentle, fun-loving easy-going approach to life. I was fortunate to be in college with Sara in a Christian Fraternity and worked along side her for 3 months selling shoes at Nordstrom. I will remember her as an example of Jesus Christ's gentleness and compassion. See you in heaven Sara.
Lisa and David Srougi
August 3, 2007
Neil, Josh and Meridith our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sarah was an unbeleivable person, we will miss her. We were fortunate to be her neighbor for four years.
Mark Lopez
August 3, 2007
Alice and Mark Lopez would like to send our condolences and say that we will pray for Neil and their children.
Colleen Miller
August 3, 2007
It was such an honor to call Sara my friend. She was an inspiration to everyone around her. Sara was a wonderful neighbor and an awesome tennis player! My thoughts and prayers our with Neil, Meredith & Joshua and to all of Sara's family.
Vangie Alban
August 3, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May the God of all comfort bring peace to your hearts.
Don and Vangie Alban and family
Phillip & Lynne Coule
August 3, 2007
Phillip and Lynne Coule would like to express our sympathy for Neil, the kids, and the rest of Sara's family. Our thoughts are prayers are with you during this difficult time. Sara was one of the sweetest people that we have ever had the pleasure of knowing.
Lila Peake
August 3, 2007
Because of you, Sarah B...
We will always be reminded to appreciate each and every day
We will all be stronger during life's greatest challenges
Our own lives have forever been changed because of your great faith, strength and perserverence.
Lila, friend and neighbor
Sherry Goff
August 3, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Dr. Buckley & your family. I hope that you find comfort in those around you and mostly in God. Please let me know if we can do anything for you.
Sherry Goff and Chad Conrad
Alan and Mindy Colton
August 3, 2007
We have known Sara since high school and college as well as Alan working for her dad. We KNOW God is faithful and she is in His arms right now. We pray for those who miss her here on earth. We pray that her life and passing will bring more than one person to know the hope found in Christ! We will see you in heaven Sara!
Jim Wilde
August 3, 2007
Sara and Neal spent three years with us here in Augusta while Neal completed his emergency medicine residency at the Medical College of Georgia. The news of Sara's death has struck us all. Our deepest sympathy to Neal, his family, and Sara's family.
Matt and Michelle Lyon
August 3, 2007
We will miss Sara. Our thoughts are with Neil and his family.
Eleanor Poe
August 3, 2007
Dr. Buckley, my heart goes out to you and your family at this time and in the days ahead. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help you now and in the future. God Bless You!
Suzanne Lederer
August 3, 2007
Sara was a wondeful friend and we always had such a great time playing tennis. She was my athletic partner in college. I was blessed to have known her. My prayers and thoughts are with the family at this time. I am so sorry.
Niki and John Wickenhiser
August 3, 2007
I led several Bible Studies with Sara in the late eighties/early nineties. She was so easy to get to know and so fun to be with! Her faith was so solid and contagious. We were truly saddened by the news today. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Phillip & Shannon Nelson
August 2, 2007
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Robyn Newcomb
August 2, 2007
Sara was a very special person. I work at the Cancer Center in Roanoke. I met her there. She was such a sweet and soft spoken person. My deepest sympathy to her family.
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