Donald E. S. Buckley

Donald S. Buckley, 56, of Portland, died March 24 at Mercy Hospital in Portland after a long illness.Donald was born in Portland on July 4, 1953 and grew up in a large family in which he had 8 siblings one of whom is a twin sister. As an adult, Donald lived for many years at the former Pineland Center to receive assistance with his developmental disability. He lived the majority of his life in Portland and at one point had an apartment on Grant Street. Donald did end up homeless for a portion of his latter years until four years ago when he was able to get housing through a supported living environment with Woodfords Family Services.Donald is survived by 5 of his siblings, four of whom were at his bedside at the time of his passing. Donald is also survived by his housemate, best friend and life partner of almost 16 years, Jeanette Stanley who was also with him during his last hours.Donald was a man who led a tough life and overcame many obstacles, but during all his years he always made the best of his situations and had a positive outlook on his life. Donald was a man that was fiercely independent and always wanted to provide for himself and not have to rely on others for assistance. When he was able to work, Donald had a strong work ethic. Donald made sure that he also helped provide for the support in every aspect he could for his life partner Jeanette Stanley. Donald was a very loyal and supporting friend who would do the little things to put a smile on the faces of those around him. He enjoyed spending his free time watching sports and these past few years was able to attend several Red Sox and New England Patriot games that he always dreamed of doing growing up. Donald will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and those who provided support for him through Woodfords Family Services.A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 2 at 11:00 AM at Woodfords Family Services, 15 Saunders Way, Westbrook.Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Woodfords Family Services, P. O. Box 1768, Portland, ME 04104.Arrangements are under the direction of the Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home, 580 Main Street, Springvale. Condolences may be expressed at the Condolences tab at left.