Funeral services for Mrs. Mae Ellen Buckley will be conducted at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Saulters Moore Funeral Home Chapel with the Reverend Tom Jackson officiating. Interment will follow in the Bethany Cemetery. Mrs. Buckley, age 85, entered into the eternal rest of her Lord on Wednesday afternoon, March 25, 2026, at the Jefferson Davis Extended Care Facility. Saulters Moore Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

The family will receive friends Saturday morning beginning at 9:00 am until the hour of service at 11:00 am at Saulters Moore Funeral Home.

Mrs. Buckley will be carried to her final resting place by those honored to serve as pallbearers including Drake Arrington, Brady Buckley, Jeremy Sherman, Justin Griffin, Rivers Gulledge, and Matt Prince. Honorary pallbearers will be great-grandchildren, Andrew Sherman, Jace Griffin, Cole Campbell, Tristan Gulledge, Alayna Sherman, Steedly Mae Buckley, Madeline Buckley, and the staff of Jefferson Davis ECF and Hospital. 

Mae Ellen Buckley was born on June 7, 1940, in Magee, Mississippi to William Jefferson and Addie Wade Prince. She and her late husband, J.P., dedicated their lives to raising cattle and tending to their farm, a partnership characterized by tireless effort and mutual devotion. Wherever J.P. was — whether haying cows or assisting with the birth of calves — Mae was right there by his side, sharing in the labor and care that defined their daily routine. Though she was 85, many who knew her would describe her as young at heart, always ready with a steady hand and a spirit full of purpose.

One of Mae’s favorite pastimes was bank fishing, often seen sitting on a bucket, cane pole in hand, exhibiting the patience of Job as she waited for the fish to bite. Mae’s home was a sanctuary, filled with the aroma of her wonderful cooking—most notably her beloved chicken and dumplings—that drew family close. Her doors always swung on welcome hinges, and her table was a cherished gathering place where food was plentiful and love overflowed. She also treasured her beloved cat, Mimsy, who brought joy and companionship to her daily life. 

Mae Buckley was the epitome of a selfless woman whose constant concern was for the needs of others. She had an extraordinary ability to make each grandchild feel as if they were her favorite, a sentiment she held deeply and sincerely. This unfailing love and attention left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to be part of her family. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Mae lived a life defined by hard work, unwavering love, and genuine compassion. She will be remembered not only for the life she built but also for the warmth and kindness she extended to all who knew her.

Mae was a devoted member of Prentiss Baptist Church. She will also be remembered for her love of reading her Bible, one of her favorite scriptures being Psalm 121.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Buckley is preceded in death by her husband, J.P. Buckley; step-daughter, Barbara Gulledge; her brothers, Thomas Prince, Ed Prince; and her sisters, Lucy Butler, Linda Parish, and Frances McNair.

Her memory will forever be cherished by her daughter, Susan Buckley of Prentiss; step-son, Johnny Buckley (Donna) of Prentiss; and her son-in-law, David Gulledge of Raymond. The legacy of their Maw-maw will live on through her grandchildren, Drake Arrington (Beau), Erika Campbell, Rivers Gulledge (Kellie), Ashley Sherman (Jeremy), Anna Griffin (Justin), Brady Buckley (Lacie), and her great-grandchildren, Alayna Sherman, Andrew Sherman, Jace Griffin, Steedly Mae Buckley, Cole Campbell, Tristan Gulledge, and Madeline Gulledge.

The family also wishes to extend special love and appreciation to Mrs. Buckley’s caregiver and nurse, Michelle Reid.

Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com.