Billy Jack Buck

Billy Jack Buck passed away of acute respiratory failure and septic shock from pneumonia on May 23, 2024, in Olympia, Washington. His wife, son, daughter and grandson, Judah, were by his side. Billy was born August 7, 1948, to James and Earline Buck in Nicholsville, Alabama. Over the years, he resided in Lacey, Washington (three years), Richland, Washington (15 years), Las Vegas, Nevada (30 years), and Detroit, Michigan (25 years).

Billy graduated from Southwestern High School in Detroit (1966) and earned a BA in Communications from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor (1970), where he was a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. He married Sharyn Pilgrim on June 8, 1975. 

Professionally, Billy was a casino shift supervisor at the Westward Ho Hotel and Casino. He loved Michigan football, bowling, and playing the piano. He also loved Motown music and was a big Stephen King and horror movie fan. Billy was kind, funny, crazy about his grandchildren, and never doubted his wife’s love. He was a proud member of the OAMFs and his family will never forget how he ate cookies for breakfast.

Billy is survived by his wife, Sharyn Pilgrim-Buck of Lacey, Washington; son, Dana Buck (wife, Melissa) of Bellingham, Washington; daughter, Crystal Mazzuca of Lacey, Washington; grandchildren, Judah Mazzuca, Micah Mazzuca, Noah Mazzuca, Heidi Buck and Colbie Buck; brothers, Hollis Buck (wife, Linda) of Las Vegas, Nevada and Michael Buck (wife, Kim) of Savannah, Georgia; and sister, JoAnne Buck-Gray of Lathrup Village, Michigan. He was predeceased by his mother, Earline Buck; brother, James Buck Jr.; and sisters, Doris Barnes and Ernestine Cornelious.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for July 13, 2024, 12:00-3:00 p.m. at Laurel Manor–39000 Schoolcraft Rd., Livonia, MI 48150. The celebration will have a University of Michigan blue and maize theme, so please dress accordingly. Go Blue!

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