Ed Buckner, a beloved Arkansas broadcaster and longtime chief meteorologist at THV11, died Sunday evening after a battle with cancer. He was 59
Buckner joined THV11 in 1996 and spent nearly 25 years as chief meteorologist. He earned seals of approval from both the National Weather Association and the American Meteorological Society. In 1997, he became the first meteorologist in Arkansas to use live radar on air to track a tornado, an innovation credited with saving lives during that and future severe weather events.
Born in Houston, Texas, Buckner graduated from St. Pius X High School before attending Stephen F. Austin State University. He later earned a degree in meteorology from Mississippi State University.
Outside of broadcasting, Buckner was deeply involved in charitable work, supporting organizations such as the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Special Olympics, United Way, and Arkansas Children’s Hospital. He also advocated for Tourette Syndrome awareness, sharing his own experience with the disorder in hopes of promoting understanding and acceptance.
Buckner was also a musician, known for writing weather-themed songs for children and performing them during school visits. A lifelong music enthusiast, he enjoyed playing guitar and collecting vinyl records.
He mentored many aspiring meteorologists throughout his career and was a 2025 nominee for the Arkansas Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame. Buckner stepped away from broadcasting in 2020 due to complications related to Tourette Syndrome.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Buckner; his children, Brooke Buckner, Morgan Buckner, Grant Lewis, and Kristan Hendricks; and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Ashton Eakin.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
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