Eugene Buckley

Eugene Buckley, 94
Beloved Husband and Father, Veteran, and Aviation Executive

Juno Beach, FL – Eugene Buckley, 94, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, August 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 6, 1930, in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, Gene was the son of Elizabeth (Sheehan) and Jeremiah Buckley and one of five children. After graduating high school, he served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean conflict, where he developed a lifelong passion for aviation.

Following his military service, Gene began his career with Republic Aircraft and Grumman, later relocating to San Diego to work for Rohr Industries. He ultimately settled in Connecticut, where he joined Sikorsky Aircraft. Starting as a manager on the Black Hawk helicopter program, Gene rose to become President and CEO, spending over 20 years advancing military and commercial aviation globally.

Gene met his beloved wife, Ann, at a CYO dance in New York City. Together they raised five children and lived in Long Island, San Diego, and Trumbull, Connecticut. They were active members of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church for over 30 years and built a joyful, faith-filled family life.

Gene often said that marrying Ann was the best decision of his life. She was the wind beneath his wings, supporting him in both his career and his life. Together, they traveled the world, cherished their friendships, and created a loving home. In many ways, Sikorsky was like a sixth child to Gene—they were family.

He was known not only for his integrity, humility, and passion for flight, but also for his quick wit and unwavering optimism. Though Gene was a man of few words, when he spoke, his words carried weight—thoughtful, clear, and sincere. His humor and leadership were a source of comfort and joy to those around him.

He is survived by his five children: Eugene (Judy) Buckley, Moira (Beau) Blair, Tara (Michael) O’Sullivan, Kerry Buckley, and Daniel (Michelle) Buckley; eight grandchildren: Emily, Eugene, Colin, Timothy, Caitlin, Madeleine, Rory, and Finn; and four great-grandchildren: Jack, Liza, Taylor, and Liam. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ann.

Gene will be remembered for his integrity, leadership, and unwavering devotion to his family and those he served.

Friends are invited to attend his funeral services on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 220 Shelton Rd. Trumbull. Interment will follow in Nichols Village Cemetery. Friends may greet the family on Tuesday, August 12th from 4-6 p.m. at the Cyril F. Mullins Funeral Home, 399 White Plains Rd. Trumbull. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society. donate.cancer.org To leave an online condolence please visit www.mullinsfh.com

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