News post

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sally Kay Buhner, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Sally departed this world on March 10, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and kindness that touched the lives of all who knew her. Born on January 4, 1949, in Gary, Indiana, Sally was the cherished daughter of Dalton and Mildred (Wenrick) Richards.

Sally's vibrant spirit was first nurtured in the bustling town of Gary, where she grew up alongside her siblings, Judy Neumeier, Andrea Perlinski, Mark Richards, Scot Richards and his wife Lara with whom Sally was particularly close. She carried the values of her upbringing into every aspect of her life. A proud alumna of Lew Wallace High School, Sally pursued her passion for education at Indiana University Northwest, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education in 1972.

In May of that same year, Sally married the love of her life, John C. Buhner, Jr. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and adventure, spanning over five decades. Their union was blessed with two children, Katie and John, whose lives were enriched by their mother's warmth and wit. Sally also welcomed with open arms her daughter-in-law, Lori, and she cherished her grandsons, Wyatt Swick and John Evan Buhner, whose presence brought immense joy to her life. She loved playing board games at family gatherings.

Sally's career was defined by her dedication to education. She began her professional journey as an administrative assistant at Mission Glen Elementary School and Arizona Fleming Elementary School. Later, she found her true calling as an English as a Second Language teacher at Drabek Elementary in Fort Bend ISD, where she ultimately spent over 30 years. Sally's passion for teaching was evident in her commitment to her students, whom she nurtured with patience and care as they developed their English language skills. Her colleagues became dear friends, and her influence extended far beyond the classroom.

A social butterfly at heart, Sally reveled in the company of friends and family. Her infectious laughter and gift for storytelling were legendary, and she had an uncanny ability to make others smile with her playful pranks. Fridays were often filled with the lively camaraderie of Spades games, and poker weekends were a cherished tradition. Sally's love for sports and reading added further dimensions to her vibrant personality.

Above all, Sally adored spending time with her grandsons, delighting in every moment shared. Her nurturing spirit and boundless love left an indelible mark on their young lives, a testament to her enduring legacy.

Sally is predeceased by her parents, Dalton and Mildred Richards, and her in-laws, John "Jack" and Betty Buhner. She leaves behind a devoted family who will carry her memory in their hearts: her husband, John; daughter, Katie; son, John, and daughter-in-law, Lori; grandsons, Wyatt and John Evan; and her siblings, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

To celebrate Sally's remarkable life, a service will be held on April 11, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Schmidt Funeral Home, located at 1344 W. Grand Parkway South, Katy, TX 77494. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Sally's honor to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital—a cause dear to her heart.

In this time of sorrow, we find solace in the knowledge that Sally's love and laughter will forever echo in our hearts, and her spirit will continue to inspire us all.