Joy Ranch, A Christian Home for Children, is saddened by the death of Edward “Bucky” Lovern, a former resident of Joy Ranch and a lifetime friend, ambassador and supporter of the ministry. Throughout his entire life, Bucky, a Hillsville, Virginia native, supported Joy Ranch with his endless kind words and countless hours of volunteer work, including serving on the Board of Directors, loving the children and being instrumental in getting a scoreboard for the gymnasium at Joy Ranch. Additionally, he frequently visited area businesses encouraging support for the ministry and negotiated pricing for vehicles or other needs for Joy Ranch. “Bucky’s Backyard” was established at Joy Ranch in 2013, as a partnership with Lowe’s, to provide the children of Joy Ranch with a fun, safe playground. Bucky passed away on January 8, 2017 and was preceded in death by his son, Jon, father, Paul Lovern and father-in-law, Barney Yonce. He is survived by his wife Milissa, mother, Betty Jordan and her husband, Kenneth, his siblings, Skeebo Lovern and Jane Lovern and his mother-in-law Mildred Yonce. Although the staff, residents, Board of Directors and all affiliated with Joy Ranch are deeply saddened by this loss, Bucky Lovern will always hold a special place in our ​​hearts and at Joy Ranch.​