Mary Nell Buck

Mary Nell Buck Mary Buck of Abilene, Texas passed away on October 28, 2007 after a long but courageous battle against cancer. Born and raised in Greenville, Alabama, Mary was the daughter of Marion and Beatrice Riley. She married Vincent "VK" Buck, in 1949 and began her "tour" as an Air Force wife with their first assignment in Germany. Thirty years, many stations around the world, and four children later, she and VK retired from active duty and settled in Abilene, Texas. Mary was a long time active member of the United States Tennis Association - as an avid player, making several appearances with her Senior's team at the USTA Team Nationals, winning in 1989 - and as a highly respected umpire and referee for the local high schools and universities, earning the USTA Texas Umpire of the Year Award in 1994 and the Abilene Tennis Association's Umpire of the Year for 2004-2005. Mary was preceded in death by her father and siblings, and one son, Kelly. She is survived by her mother, Beatrice Riley; her husband, VK; her remaining three children and their spouses; Mike and Robin, Patrick and Treva, and Kim; eight grandchildren and her pups, Spotty and Mikey. She leaves behind a legacy of service to her community, of friendship, understanding and guidance to all who knew her. Her family and many friends will miss Mary's love for life and giving spirit. Mary touched the lives and hearts of many people. Family Visitation and a Memorial Service will be at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road, Abilene, Texas on Friday, November 2, 2007. Visitation will begin at 3:00 P.M. with the service following at 4:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial donations made in Mary's honor to the American Cancer Society, 209 S. Danville; Building B, Suite 107, Abilene, Texas 79605; or Hospice of the Big Country; 4601 Hartford Street, Abilene, Texas 79605.