America's Great Champion of Liberty   

Contemporary intellectuals, especially of the Marxist persuasion, like to argue that large, impersonal, industrial-scale processes transform societies. William F. Buckley believed in a different force, the individual, a doctrine rooted in the Catholic faith that so animated his life. He ardently believed in — and defended — the dignity of man. He insisted that this same principle infuse our political institutions, which made him one of America's great champions of liberty. Mr. Buckley refuted the collectivist theories of the twentieth century, and led a movement that changed the course of history. In doing so, he reaffirmed the truths inherent in our Judeo-Christian tradition and embedded in Western civilization. 

But it started and ended for Mr. Buckley, as the extraordinary testimonals here demonstrate, by reaching out to individuals — to his family, to his colleagues, and to young Americans in seach of guidance. His charming notes, letters, and missives touched, and inspired, countless individual lives. 

In this same spirit, he was not just a man of the world, but someone comfortable in his own community. The people of Stamford, Connecticut, where he shared a home with his wife, Patricia, and son, Christopher, deeply appreciate his commitment to the well being our our city. We will remember him with warmth and fondness. At his local parish, the bells of Saint Mary's will toll in his honor.
Joseph Morrison Skelly, Stamford, Connecticut

02/29 05:17 PM