Jerry A. Buckley

Jerry Buckley, a well-known farm and ranch auctioneer, died at his home on October 11, 2023.

A Celebration of Life with music from The Blackfeet Warriors and Military Honors from the Sweetgrass American Legion and US Air Force will be held at the Sweetgrass Cemetery on Thursday, October 19 at 11:00 a.m.  A luncheon will follow at the American Legion Post 73 in Sweetgrass.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Asper Funeral Homes.  Please visit Jerry’s online memorial and leave a message of condolence for the family a www.asperfh.com.

Born on April 18, 1936, in Great Falls, MT Jerry lived the first few years on the historic family ranch 7 miles west of Sweetgrass.

He is survived by his older brother and sister, Patrick F. Buckley of Cut Bank, MT; his sister Bonnie Buckley Maldonado of Silver City, NM; sister-in-law Bobbie Ann Buckley; nephews and nieces Tim (Gayle) Buckley, Erin (Kelsey) Buckley; Jeanie Hamilton and Karen Connell of Montgomery, Texas; and Briget Maldonado of El Paso, Texas. He also leaves several great nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Patrick T. Buckey and Dorothy Aman Buckley; brother Michael T. Buckley; foster brother Clarence “Joey” Bird Rattler; and nephew John Buckley.

Jerry attended the Oilfield School, graduated from Sunburst High School, and completed auctioneer’s school in Iowa. Having the heart of an adventurer, Jerry worked a variety of jobs, including construction on the Montana missile site project. He worked as a hand on many area ranches; and even had a bit part for a Tuscan movie company. Jerry was a calf roper and won several impressive belt buckles in a variety of locales.

Jerry’s manner of speaking drew out every word to the longest extent possible. His rapid-fire auctioneer’s chant would make his auctioneering school in Iowa proud of him. He truly was, without a doubt, a highly respected farm and ranch auctioneer. Jerry was once named the top state auctioneer in Montana.

He served in the Montana Air National Guard of Gore Field. Jerry was a proud member of the American Legion Post Number 73 and served in the Honor Guard at numerous funerals of veterans.

Jerry revered the Blackfeet Culture and enjoyed many Pow Wows in Heart Butte and Browning. He did a great deal of research on the Baker Massacre near Marias River. He was particularly interested in honoring the lives lost during this tragic occurrence.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to American Legion Post 73; 133 Central Avenue, Sweetgrass, MT, 59484.