Haskell Floyd "Buck" Vanderford

January 22, 1934 – April 30, 2026

Born In Lockhart, South Carolina

"Off we go into the Wild Blue Yonder, climbing high into the Son."

Haskell Floyd "Buck" Vanderford, a retired United States Air Force Master Sergeant, passed away and was reunited with Christ Jesus in the Heavenly Realm. He was born on January 22, 1934, on the banks of the Broad River in Lockhart, South Carolina, to Maude and Shine Vanderford.

Buck faithfully served his country for 30 years, including 2 years in the National Guard, 20 years in the United States Air Force, and 8 years in Air Force Civil Service. Though an Airman, he often joked about disliking flying—"what a concept!" His first airplane ride was in a B-25 bomber, like those used in General Doolittle's Tokyo raid.

His service took him across the United States and around the world, including Japan, Korea, Okinawa, the Philippines, Guam, Taiwan, Alaska, and Hawaii. Stateside assignments included Lackland AFB and Kelly AFB (Texas), Lowry AFB (Colorado), Chanute AFB (Illinois), the U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado), and the NSA at Fort Meade (Maryland). He deeply valued his years of service and his retirement.

Buck was a devoted Christian and longtime member of the Church of Christ, worshipping in Alvin and San Antonio, Texas, as well as wherever he was stationed. In his younger years, he was known in Lockhart, South Carolina for his athletic ability and for pitching baseball for the Union American Legion.

In retirement, Buck developed a passion for writing. He authored and self-published approximately 50 books and collections of poetry, an accomplishment of which he was very proud.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra Vanderford; He is survived by his brother, Frank "Cricket" Vanderford, sister-in-law, Sharon Herbert (Ron). Daughters Wanda Myers (Randy) and Sheryl Williams (Tim); and one son-in-law, Dr. Clay Wright.

When he married his beloved wife, Sandra, in 2003, he gained a bonus family: stepdaughters Cindy Cegielski (Kevin) and Brenda Schibi (Jody).

He is survived by His grandchildren including: Krystal Murphy, Shawn Stanley, Lauren Strandberg (Louis), Cody West (Nichole), Cayla Welsh (James), and Christy Barr (Douglas).

He is also survived by bonus grandchildren: Joel Tucker (Laken), Cassie Tucker, Andy Staff (Dani), Taylor Miles (Cory), and Spencer Cardiff (Harrison).

Buck leaves behind three great-grandsons and four great-granddaughters, as well as thirteen bonus step-great-grandchildren, and one bonus-great-great-grandchild. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, and cousins, "as numerous as the rocks of the Broad River."

Buck was preceded in death by his parents, Maude and Shine Vanderford; his first wife, Joanne Carol (Ozment) Vanderford; his daughter, Cynthia Wright; his brothers, Edward Vanderford and Billy Vanderford; and his sisters, Louise Vanderford, Lois Phipps, Mable Couch, and Inez Cabaniss.

Buck was a proud, avid, and faithful Houston Astros fan for many years.

Those he leaves behind will carry on his legacy of faith, service, and love.

In lieu of flowers, Buck suggested that donations be made to a worthwhile veterans organization.