The life of Walter Harold Buckmaster, Jr. will be celebrated at:

HOLY TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH

8895 Youree Drive, Shreveport, LA

Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Walter Harold Buckmaster Jr., age 88, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025, in Bossier City, Louisiana.

Walt lived a life we could all envy. Not for what he accumulated, but for the indelible impact he made on those lucky enough to know him. Walt was kind, warm, and generous to a fault. He enjoyed being around people, telling stories, cracking jokes, and making fast friends in thirty-second elevator rides. He loved his family deeply and lived each day with honor, integrity, and quiet strength. Above all, Walt was guided by his faith in Christ. He believed he was put in the right place at the right time to serve God through his actions for others. That faithful service, and the love he poured into everyone around him, define the immense legacy he leaves behind.

Walt’s story began on September 24, 1937, in Ardmore, Oklahoma. The son of Walter Sr. and Morene, he was big brother to Richard and Jimmy. Walt grew up fast. He attended Will Rogers High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma before answering the call to serve in the U.S. Air Force in 1955 at 17 years old and marrying just two years later.

On Easter Sunday, April 21, 1957, Walt married the love of his life, Sharon. From that day forward, they stood side by side through every season of life for 68 years. As true partners, they built a life that was rooted in faith, strenghthened by mutual support, and sustained by a lifelong commitment to one another. He was never shy to point toward Sharon, give a wink, and say “you know she’s the best thing to ever happen to me.” Together, they raised two children, Kyle and Shelby, and treasured their growing family.

Walt enjoyed a long and distinguished career in the military. During his time in the Air Force, he was stationed at Lake Charles and Bossier City, Louisiana, Wichita Falls, Texas, and Omaha, Nebraska (headquarters of SAC command). His career also took him around the world, including time in England, Vietnam, and Puerto Rico.

In recognition of his service, Walt was awarded a Bronze Star for Meritorious Achievement. He was also given the Joint Service Commendation Medal for his achievement in the Performance of his Duties. He retired from the U. S. Air Force in 1975 with the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, closing one chapter and opening another.

After retiring from the military, Walt began working in sales in the private sector (first with L & J Builders and later with Action Garage Doors).

Walt especially cherished his role as Papa. Emily, Travis, and John loved spending weeks at Walt and Sharon’s home during the summers, staying up late, laughing, eating junk food, getting into trouble, and making memories that will last a lifetime.

Later in life, Walt helped raise his grandson, Adam, and their relationship grew into a deep and enduring friendship. They were truly best friends, and Adam was one of Walt’s greatest joys. Walt often said he hoped to stick around long enough to see Adam grow into a young man, and he did just that. Adam will forever carry the love, guidance and pride that Walt poured into his life.

Faith and service were central to Walt’s life. He was a founding member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Shreveport, Louisiana and served faithfully in many roles over the years, including Council President, committee chairs, and sometimes lawn mower and trusted handyman. Walt was also a member of the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Posse Patrol, where he valued both the opportunity to serve and the lifelong friendships he formed.

When Walt had some free time he enjoyed the outdoors–playing golf, hunting, fishing, and boating. He was also a devoted fan of Oklahoma football, rarely missing a chance to cheer them on.

Above all else, Walt will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, a doting grandfather (Papa), a generous friend, and a steady presence in his community. He was a kind soul, and a man whose love was felt by those around him. He will be dearly missed.