Jimmie C. Buckhanan, age 86, of Rockford, Illinois, made his peaceful transition from his earthly life to everlasting life October 15, 2022 in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born November 4, 1935 in Tigrett, Tennessee to John Thomas, also known as "JT", and Emma L. (Powell) Buckhanan; they preceded him in death.

Jimmie attended the Dyer County Public school system in Tigrett, Tennessee. During his childhood, he attended William Chapel Baptist Church with his family in Friendship, Tennessee. While attending services there, he confessed his belief in Christ.

In the mid-50s, Jimmie relocated to Rockford, Illinois. There, he met Velma Jarrett, who became the love of his life and were married in 1960.

For over 20 years, he was employed as a machinist with various companies. After a few years in retirement, he returned to the workplace. Jimmie was employed as a domestic worker with the Rockford School System. He was assigned to the Carson Elementary and Jefferson High Schools. In 2021, he retired due to illness.

Jimmie loved attending services at the Forest City Church in Rockford. He enjoyed playing cards with the many friends he made. His passion was playing the lottery and gardening. He cherished the time spent with his children and grandchildren. He dearly loved and valued all of his family and always strived to keep them together. Jimmie C. was a caring and generous man with a heart of gold. He was greatly loved and respected by his family and friends.

Jimmie leaves to cherish his precious memory, his loving and devoted wife, Velma Buchanan; daughters, Tashevia Ashford Sanchez (Enrique) Sanchez and Trish Edwards, sons William Buckhanan, Jimmie Edwards; step daughter Marie Glossen; 15 grand children, 18 great grandchildren, beloved sister, Martha LaVerne Cook; nephews Dale, Ricky and Kenneth Robinson, and Tery Cook; and many more family and friends. He was preceded in death by grandparents, Ezra and Eliza Buckhanan and Jessie and Mattie Powell.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 28, 2022 at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service