Ila Jean Buckingham

Ila Jean Buckingham, lovingly known as “Ms. Buck,” transitioned peacefully from this life on December 3, 2025, at the age of 85 in Toledo, Ohio surrounded by her family. Born on February 28, 1940, in Amory, Mississippi, Ila was a radiant light whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she encountered.

Ila’s journey through life was marked by her unwavering dedication to family and faith. She worked various jobs throughout her life, ultimately taking pride in her role as a central supply technician at the University of Toledo Medical Center, where she dedicated more than 30 years of service before retiring. Her commitment extended far beyond her professional life; she was the embodiment of love and generosity, often referred to as the neighborhood grandma, always ready to offer a warm meal and comforting words to anyone in need.

A devoted member of New Home Baptist Church for over forty years, Ila was later welcomed into the congregation at Resurrection Baptist Church, where she served faithfully on the Mother's Board. Her baptism and acceptance of Jesus Christ at a young age were the foundation of her life, and her faith was a guiding light for her and her family.

Ila cherished family gatherings, particularly during Christmas and birthdays, which were close to her heart. She found joy in simple pleasures such as cooking, traveling, and shopping, often accompanied by her beloved husband James, whom she married on March 13, 1958. Together, they created a life filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Her sense of humor and kind-hearted nature left a lasting impression on everyone around her.

She is survived by her devoted husband James; children Melvin (Wanda), Debra (Charles), Sharon, James, and Lorenzo (Stefanie); sister Alice Jean of Amory, MS; brothers Gussie of Amory, MS, and James Lee in Georgia; sister-in-law Myrtle of Amory, MS; and an adoring legacy of grandchildren including Jeanita, Dennis, Melvin Jr., Keyonia (Edward), Tamekia (Andrew), Lorenzo Jr., James IV, Jameilla (Keith), Tyrece, Essence, Nikia (Sebastian), Darnell Sr., and Jovan. Her great-grandchildren are Tomeisha, Lorenzo III, Nathaniel, Jamia, Jasmine, Alaya, Ryan, Shaterra, Se'Ron, Aubrei, Darnell Jr., Ashtein, James Jr., Karter, Mariah, Greyson, Jovan Jr., Yasir, Jurnee, Royalti, and Nai'Ari, along with her great-great-grandchild Dahmir, all of whom she cherished deeply.

Ila was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Lee and Ida Bates. Despite her physical absence, her spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of her family, where she made her proudest accomplishments.

A special acknowledgment is given to her extended family, including Michael Chiles, Earl Hopings, her adopted daughter Wanda Taylor-Carter, and Qwida Hubbard, for their devoted care.

A visitation in honor of Ila will be held on December 13, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Resurrection Baptist Church, located at 3360 Nebraska Ave, Toledo, OH 43607. Her legacy of love, encouragement, and faith will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.