Lewis Kenneth “Buck” Musser, Sr., age 93, of Newark, Delaware, formerly of Marshallton, Ocean View, DE, and Estero, FL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, in his daughter’s home, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply.
Buck was truly a gentle giant. He loved his family beyond measure and showed it in quiet, steady ways every day. He was humble, kind, loyal, easygoing and friendly. Buck had a way of making people feel comfortable and heard. He could tell a great story, but he was an even better listener. He worked hard his entire life and took great pride in providing for his family. His beautiful smile and calm presence will be deeply missed by everyone that knew him.
He found joy in traveling, boating, fishing, camping, roller skating, and spending time at his beach home in Ocean View, Delaware, and his winter home in Estero, Florida. He cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren, whether playing games, especially playing cards, or simply being together around the dinner table.
Buck shared a remarkable love story with his wife, Phyllis Klair Musser, the love of his life. They were married for 60 wonderful years until her passing in 2014. Together they raised five children, all born within six years. They built a home filled with love, laughter, and strong values. Throughout their children’s upbringing, Buck and Phyllis made family memories a priority, taking many trips and vacations together with their kids. When the family was not traveling, they spent summer weekends at the Delaware beach, especially on the Indian River Inlet. After retiring, Buck carefully mapped out a route and spent a full year traveling the country with Phyllis, visiting all 50 U.S. states, side by side.
Born and raised on a small farm in Christiana, Delaware, Buck grew up with humble beginnings that shaped his strong work ethic and grounded spirit. He worked for Gulf Oil, Chevron Oil, and in construction, where he generously shared his carpentry skills and knowledge with family and friends. In his earlier years, he also served as a New Castle County Deputy Sheriff.
Buck proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War and was stationed in Italy. It was a source of quiet pride for him, and for all of us.
Buck was a longtime member of the Masonic Fraternity Lodge and Red Clay Creek Presbyterian Church, both of which held an important place in his life.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Phyllis Klair Musser; his parents, Roy and Bertha Musser; his sister, Betty Musser Harris; and his son-in-law, William Paul Ciccaglione.
Buck is survived by his five loving children: Joy M. Ciccaglione of Lawrenceville, GA; Patti M. Jeffers (Jim) of Hockessin, DE; Lewis Kenneth Musser, Jr. (Linda) of Newark, DE; Linda K. Hanna (Matthew) of Hockessin, DE; and Jacklyn M. Hagenbach (Lee) of Estero, FL.
He leaves behind a cherished legacy in his 11 grandchildren: Sheree (Ciccaglione) Betts; Kenneth Tyrone Musser; Bucky Jeffers (Cait Byrns); Bryan Ciccaglione (Kimberly); Randy Jeffers; Jonathan Hanna (Paige); Zachary Hanna (Alaina); Hunter Hagenbach (Katy); Melissa (Hanna) Newell (Nick); Haley Hagenbach; and Sean Musser. He was also blessed to know and love 16 great-grandchildren, with another due in May. Buck was also survived by his niece, Kim Wilson and her husband Dave and a host of other nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank Delaware Hospice, who was instrumental in helping to keep Buck comfortable in his final days.
Services will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Red Clay Creek Presbyterian Church, 500 McKennan Church Road, Wilmington, DE 19808. Visitation with the family will be from 9:30 to 11:00, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will immediately follow in the Red Clay Creek Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Lewis’s name to Red Clay Creek Presbyterian Church or Delaware Hospice, 630 Churchman’s Road, Newark DE 19702
For online condolences please visit: mccreryandharra.com
