William C. "Bill" Buckley, Jr.

William C. “Bill” Buckley Jr. passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born on April 26, 1963, Bill was raised in Forest Brook Glen in Newport before making his home in Middletown in 2004.

Bill was the beloved son of William C. Buckley and Sandra Buckley, and the oldest of five children. He shared a lifelong bond with his siblings: Connie Buckley, John Buckley, Bob Buckley, and Sandee Nabb.

Above all else, Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was the loving husband and best friend of Victoria Buckley (Radulski), his soulmate and the love of his life since 1979. Together, they built a beautiful life grounded in love, laughter, loyalty, and family. Bill was a proud father to Michele Buckley and William C. “Billy” Buckley III, and a loving grandfather to Kaydence, who brought endless joy to his life. He also leaves behind his beloved dogs, Bear and Buddy, who were cherished companions and a constant source of happiness.

Known throughout his life by many nicknames — Bill, Buddha, Rash, and surely a few others — he left a lasting impression wherever he went and was loved by all who knew him.

In 1990, Bill became a friend of Bill W. and proudly lived “One Day at a Time” ever since. His strength, honesty, compassion, and willingness to help others touched countless lives and inspired many along the way.

Bill began working at just 12 years old on a Mr. Softee ice cream truck, where he became famous among family and friends for making the best ice cream cones around. Over the years, he worked at Pep Boys, Delcampo Bakery, and NVF Company before co-founding FLAME-TECH with his business partner in 1998. Bill poured his heart, dedication, and unmatched work ethic into the business. He was respected not only as a hardworking businessman, but deeply loved as a boss who treated his employees like family. One of his favorite traditions was cooking breakfast for his work family on the first Wednesday of every month — something everyone looked forward to and a reflection of the care and appreciation he showed to those around him.

Bill lived life fully and passionately. He loved riding his Harley with friends, fishing, playing poker, traveling with his beautiful wife, hunting for treasures and bargains at auctions, and spending time with the people he loved most. In recent years, he also discovered a passion for gardening. What began with a single spider plant soon turned their home into a thriving garden, with plants he nurtured now spread across the country among family and friends. Bill and Vicky also shared a love for music and traveled often to see the band, Get The Led Out, creating cherished memories together everywhere they went.

Bill truly never met a stranger. Blessed with the gift of gab, he could strike up a conversation with anyone and make them feel like an old friend. His kindness, humor, unforgettable “stupid” laugh, and willingness to help anyone in need left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He also never took a bad selfie — something his family and friends will always smile about and remember fondly.

Bill lived by the motto, “Next Right Thing,” a reflection of the courage, compassion, and authenticity with which he approached life and the people around him.

Even in passing, Bill continued giving to others through organ donation, a final act that perfectly reflected the generous man he was.

Along with his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Bob Buckley. Bill is survived by his loving wife, Victoria (Radulski) Buckley; his daughter, Michele Buckley; his son, William C. “Billy” Buckley III; his granddaughter, Kaydence Buckley; his siblings, Connie Buckley, John Buckley (Bobbie), and Sandee Nabb (Wayne); as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Rd., Wilmington, DE 19808, where a funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. A Celebration of Life reception for Bill will be held immediately following the funeral service at the Executive Banquet Hall, 205 Executive Drive, Newark, DE 19702.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Bill’s name to a charitable organization of your choosing. Bill felt strongly about helping others and supported many causes throughout his life, so rather than choosing just one organization, the family encourages donations to a cause that is personally meaningful to you in honor of Bill’s generous spirit.

To honor Bill is to live with the same joy, humor, and appreciation for life that he carried every day. He would want everyone to slow down, enjoy the little things, and never miss a chance to make a memory:

Life is short,
Go to the game,
Eat the hotdog,
Yell at the ump!

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