Born in Darlington, South Carolina, he was a son of the late William Benjamin Buck and Myrtle Backman Buck. He was a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars and a member of the Army Special Forces. He was awarded a Bronze Star and three Purple Hearts. Staff Sergeant Buck was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3137, Isle of Palms.

Surviving him is his mother of Darlington, S.C.; his son, Michael E. Buck, of Darlington, South Carolina; three sisters, Aleen Suggs, Norma Gunter, both of Darlington, South Carrolina, Barbara Lubelsky of Isle of Palms; two brothers, Jerry Buck of Cheraw, South Carolina, Seldon Buck of Darlington, South Carolina and two grandchildren, Blair Buck and Adam Buck. Long time friend Ann Cahill, of Silver Springs, Maryland. His brother Bill Buck preceded him in death.

Interment with full military honors will be in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.