Cody Randall Buckingham, a cherished son, brother, father, and friend, unexpectedly passed away at his home in Titusville on October 27, 2025.
At 28, Cody left a lasting impact through his passion, hard work, and strong connections with others.
His death deeply affected Titusville High School alumni, local sports communities, and his close family and friends, who viewed him as a true adventurer and loyal friend.
Cody Grew Up in Titusville and Made Every Moment Count
A lifelong resident and proud graduate of Titusville High School, he was a natural on the field from a young age.
Growing up, he poured his energy into football and competitive soccer, earning cheers from teammates and fans alike for his grit and skill.
But Cody’s love for action didn’t stop at school sports. He was drawn to the water like a magnet, spending countless summer days water skiing and even mastering the daring art of barefoot skiing.
Rain or shine, he never passed up a chance to be outdoors, whether it was casting a line at dawn or hiking trails that wound through Florida’s wild spaces.
Cars were Cody’s other great love, and he wore his passion for them like a badge of honor. A true “car guy” at heart, he was deeply proud to be part of the Ford family.
Behind the wheel of his sleek Mustang or rugged Ranger, he’d cruise with the windows down, wind in his hair, always dreaming up his next mod or polish job.
His grandfather’s classic ’56 Ford Thunderbird held a special place in his heart — a gleaming symbol of family heritage that Cody cherished and often spoke about with wide-eyed nostalgia.
That enthusiasm spilled over into his professional life, where he built something truly his own.
Cody owned and ran Buck’s Detailing, an auto-detailing business that became a local go-to for spotless rides.
He worked magic with a buffer and wax, turning everyday vehicles into showroom stunners, all while infusing his brand with his signature black-and-red colors.
Those hues weren’t just for his logo; they also appeared in his wardrobe, making a bold statement about the vibrant man he was.
Beyond the garage, Cody’s days were filled with purpose. He worked as a utility line technician, climbing poles and fixing lines under the relentless Florida sun, always with a steady hand and a quick smile for his crew.
But what truly defined him was his devotion to the people in his life. Cody was a proud “Girl Dad” to his two beautiful daughters, Chloe Catherine Buckingham and Aubri Hansford, whose laughter lit up his world like nothing else.
He lived for their milestones, from bedtime stories to backyard splash fights, teaching them the joy of living fully every single day.
As the “fun” uncle, he spoiled his nephews, Mason and Trevor Buckingham, with motorcycle rides and tales of his wildest escapades, ensuring family gatherings buzzed with his infectious energy.
Adventure ran deep in Cody’s veins.
He chased sunsets at the beach, savored plates of fresh seafood and barbecue like they were gourmet feasts, and revved up his motorcycle for spontaneous road trips that left him grinning ear to ear.
A die-hard sports fan, he’d rally for the Miami Hurricanes on game day and bleed black and gold for the Pittsburgh Steelers, turning living rooms into roaring stadiums with his unfiltered cheers.
Through it all, Cody was the friend who showed up—no questions asked.
Whether it was a late-night tow for a stranded buddy or a shoulder to lean on during tough times, he gave without hesitation, his big heart the glue that held his circle together.
The News of Cody’s Death Struck Like a Thunderclap, Leaving his Loved Ones in Shock
Tributes have poured in from across Titusville and beyond, each one painting a portrait of a man who lived louder and loved harder than most.
Ember Biganini, a close friend of Cody’s significant other, Ashley Hansford, shared her raw heartbreak online:
“Everyone please say a prayer for the Buckingham Family, my Best Friend Ashley, and her two daughters who need to find all the comfort and strength they can have right now. Ash, I’d walk through fire and back with you. You are strong & I love you more than words, I got you through this I promise.”
Via Facebook
Victoria Young, part of the extended family, captured the depth of the void left behind:
“An unimaginable loss for our family. Cody was such a great guy someone who touched the lives of everyone who knew him. He was loved by so many, and my kids absolutely cherished the time they spent with their uncle. It’s such a heartbreaking tragedy, and the pain of losing him will never fade. We’ll always hold onto the memories and the laughter he brought into our lives, everyone’s lives for that matter. Cody came from such a wonderful family, with amazing parents and siblings who loved him deeply. His girlfriend Ashley who brought out such a light in him, his beautiful daughter(s) will grow up surrounded by stories and memories of their dad, a man who will forever be remembered and missed by all who knew him.”
Via Facebook
Cody’s brother, Garrett Buckingham, penned a deeply personal farewell that echoes the brotherhood they shared:
“Thank you for being my brother. Thank you for the courage you gave me, the loyalty you showed, and the lessons you taught me. Your voice still echoes in my mind, and your influence will continue to shape who I am. I will miss you every day, but I know your memory will always bring me comfort and something to look up to. I love you, Cody.”
Via Facebook
Perhaps the most poignant words came from Aaron Radcliff, Cody’s lifelong best friend, whose tribute reads like a love letter to their unbreakable bond:
“Cody Buckingham (Buck, Bucky, Bucket Head) The greatest friend I ever had. My best friend…. We spent countless years together and shared a friendship that lasted longer than I can remember. We shared more memories together than anyone I had ever met. Memories that I will never forget. I can’t express what you meant to me as a friend; more than I ever told you and more than you’ll ever know. We did everything together. We experienced life’s greatest gift and became fathers of two beautiful, little girls just weeks apart. Becoming a dad was our greatest achievement in life. It was a new beginning and all that we now lived for. We hoped they would grow up together and share a friendship like ours. We would always be family and have each others back. You were a son, a grandson, a brother, and an uncle. You were a father and the best of friends. A far greater man than me and a greater man than I’ll ever become. You had a good heart and always took care of those around you. We all fall short of the glory of God. But, I’ve never met a man more deserving of God’s promise than you. I take comfort in knowing God reserved a seat in Heaven specially for you. To watch over our families, provide protection, and navigate us through life. You’ll never be gone. You’ll never be forgotten and I promise you’ll always be loved. Until we meet again brother. Rest in peace. 10/27/2025.”
VIa Facebook
Cody is survived by his devoted parents, Randy and Cathy Buckingham; his sister, Summer Rye-Buckingham; his brother, Garrett Buckingham; his significant other, Ashley Hansford, who brought out the best in him every day; his daughters, Chloe Catherine Buckingham and Aubri Hansford; his nephews, Mason and Trevor Buckingham; and a wide network of loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who feel this loss like their own.
As Titusville pauses to honor Cody Randall Buckingham, his story reminds us to chase what sets our souls on fire—whether it’s a perfect wave, a roaring engine, or the simple joy of family around the table.
His light may have dimmed, but the warmth he spread will linger in every heart he touched.
Our thoughts are with the Buckingham family in these darkest days.
Rest easy, Cody. You’ve left us better for having known you.
