David Scott Buckley

David Scott Buckley, 61, passed away at his home on Sunday, June 1, 2025, in Maryville, TN. Dave was born on December 21, 1963 in Berwyn, IL to James and Doris (Hinds) Buckley, who preceded him in death. On April 17, 1999 he married Barbara Jean Lebrick, and she survives.

Dave graduated from Morton West High School in 1981. Following that, he earned his BS in Biology and MS from the University of Illinois, Chicago. He then went on to graduate with his Doctorate from Michigan Tech. Since 1998 Dave has worked as a Professor of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, following the completion of his USDA Post-doc with the US Forest Service, starting as an Associate Professor and later being promoted into the role of Professor. There he molded young minds on caring for our forests and loved every minute of teaching.

Dave loved all aspects of the outdoors. He was an avid gardener, known for his delicious vegetables and pickles! Dave loved showing his visiting friends and family the Smokies and was so proud of where he lived and what he was doing. He also loved fishing and was very involved in with Boy Scout Troop 285, volunteering as an Assistant Scout Master even after his beloved son, Morgan, earned his Eagle Scout Rank.

David is also survived by their son, Morgan S. Buckley, Cedar Rapids, IA, of whom he couldn’t have been prouder. Further, he is survived by his brother, Bruce (Caryn) Buckley, Cresco, IA; nephew Stefan (Natalie) Buckley, Hazelton, IA; mother-in-law, Helen Lebrick, Plover, WI, aunt, Carol Perez, Berwyn, IL, his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Linda (Daniel) Garrett, Bluffton OH; Allan (Judy) Lebrick, Marshfield, WI; Randy (Marge) Lebrick, Kimberly, AL; and Lori (Jim) Stoltz of Custer, WI, as well as several cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and father-in-law, Laurel Lebrick.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025 from 4-6 PM, at Smith Funeral Home, Maryville, TN, with a service to follow. A private burial will be held in Plover, WI at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Society of American Foresters in Dave’s name. He served as Faculty Advisor for the UT Forestry Club/Student Chapter of the Society of American Foresters for the past 20+ years.

Service provided by Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000