Vernita Buckles

Vernita Buckles age 83, passed away on March 20, 2026 at Billings Clinic, surrounded by her loved ones.

Vernita Romaine Perry Buckles was born on August 3, 1942, to Frank and Lavina Perry of Fort Kipp, MT.

Vernita graduated from Brockton High School in 1961, marking the beginning of her journey into a vibrant and fulfilling life. She then pursued higher education at Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute and NAIS College, where she earned her bachelor's degree, laying a solid foundation for her future endeavors.

Shortly after her studies, Vernita married Donald Jordan Buckles; from this union, she welcomed three children: Allen William Buckles, Michelle Rae Buckles, and Donelle Kay Buckles. While she was expecting her youngest daughter, Vernita embarked on a professional journey, joining the Fort Peck Tribes Head Start Program as its bookkeeper. This role became more that just a job for her; it was a calling that she embraced in her unwavering dedication for an impressive 41 years. Her commitment and expertise in her work were so profound that even today, her colleagues recognize there is no one quite like her in that position. Her legacy continues to inspire those who had the privilege of working alongside her.

After dedicating 41 remarkable years to serving the tribes, she decided to retire, marking the end of an era filled with meaningful contributions and cherished relationships. In her retirement, she discovered a newfound passion as a Tupperware saleswoman, a role that brought her immense joy and satisfaction. This endeavor not only kept her actively engaged but also allowed her to connect with others in her community., Friends and family alike recognized her enthusiasm for Tupperware, often mentioning how her eyes would light up at the thought of hosting parties ad sharing the unique products she loved.

Our mother and grandmother possessed a heart of gold, radiating warmth and kindness that touched everyone around her. She played a significant role in nurturing and raising not just her grandchildren but also in supporting her granddaughters as they navigated the journey of parenthood. During her well-deserved retirement, she devoted her time to babysitting her great-grandchildren, creating a loving environment where laughter and cherished memories flourished. This selfless act not only deepened her bond with them but also laid the foundation for a treasured legacy of love and connection that they will carry with them forever.

If you had the privilege of knowing Mom, you would understand how deeply she cherished basketball. Her eyes would light up with joy whenever she watched her grandchildren and great-grandchildren play, their laughter and enthusiasm bringing her happiness. But her heart always held a special place for Steve Nash and the Phoenix Suns. Basketball was more than just a pastime for her; it was a way to connect with her loved ones.

She was a deeply devoted woman of God, renowned within the community for her unwavering faith and compassion. Those who knew her often remarked on how fortunate anyone would be to receiver her prayers, which carried a sense of hope and solace. Her love for the Lord inspired her to journey to various corners of the community, such as the jail, where her presence was a source of strength and comfort. Whether offering heartfelt guidance or a prayerful embrace, she was always ready to lend her support, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those she touched. Our hearts are heavy with sorrow as we reflect on the profound loss of our beloved mom, grandma, and great-grandmother. She held a special place in our lives, and her absence will leave a void that can never he filled. Yet, amidst our grief, we find solace in the thought that she has been lovingly embraced and welcomed into the gates of heaven by her Lord. We take comfort in knowing that she is at peace, surrounded by love and light.

Vernita is survived by her children Allen (Verlene), Michelle Buckles, and Donelle (Darryl) Buckles. Grandchildren, Lana (Brian) Red Dog, Nick Bighorn, Miranda (Owen) Gramling, Michael (Nicole) Cooper, Frank Joe, Seth Shields, Joseph Buckles, Taylor Buckles, Sr., Casey Ferguson, Miles Buckles, Darryl Joe Jr., Alex Buckles, Christy Red Dog, Toni Cooper, Holly Cooper, Erin Buckles, Paiton Dupree, Brayedon Dupree, and numerous great-grandchildren. Her sisters Irene Wilkins, Leta Atkinson, sister-in-law Barb Perry, and brother Clyde Perry. Her nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly, were Marilyn (Herby) Marottek, Joyce Simons, Valerie Moran, Lois Moran, Kermit Moran, Vernette Perry, Leann Perry, Lisa Perry, Jalee Atkinson, Freda Christian, and Zach Atkinson. Extended families include the Four Bears, White Eagles, Young Bears, White Bear, Blackdog, and Firsts.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Lavina Perry, her sisters, Madeline Moran, Shirley Perry, baby sister Carol Perry, her bothers, Victor Perry, Adrian Perry, Kermit Perry, and baby brother Carlos Perry. Nieces and nephews Robin Perry, Kelly Crowe, Vincent Moran Jr., Vicki Perry, Robyn Perry, Andrea Perry, Bertha Wilkins, and grandson Vincent Cooper.

Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences for the family may be left using the guestbook below.