Doris Fern Buchanan, age 103 of Salem, peacefully passed away on September 25, 2023, at SSM St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia. Born in Miller, Missouri, on October 31, 1919, she was the daughter of Lloyd and Verneda (Heart) Merrick. Doris married Arthur Buchanan, who preceded her in death.
Doris is survived by her loving son, Roger Buchanan; devoted daughter, Sue Wright, and her husband Elmer; son-in-law, Doug Romine; a host of adoring grandchildren who carry on her legacy: Wayne Buchanan, Teresa Loftis and husband Teddy, Donna Turner and husband Harry, Ed Buchanan and his wife Shari, Becky Vogle, Todd Wright and his wife Michelle, Susan Jeandron and her husband Gary, Beth Landsberg and her husband Dan, Carmen White and her husband Bob, and Delmona Vick and her husband Ray; and a daughter in law, Bea Burkepile.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Arthur Buchanan, her son Max Buchanan, her daughter Kay Romine; sisters, Hazel Bardoni, Betty Baptiste, and Velma Tiedemann; brothers Merrell and James Merrick, daughter-in-law Phyllis Buchanan, and cherished great grandson, Jordan White.
Doris lived a life devoted to God and her family. Her unwavering dependability and loyalty made her the cornerstone of her loved ones’ lives. As a mother to four, grandmother to ten, and great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother to many, Doris’s nurturing spirit knew no bounds. She was a trusted confidant with a listening ear for all. Among her many talents, she had a knack for sewing matching outfits for her grandchildren during their formative years. Her culinary prowess was legendary, with her cheesecake, pumpkin bars, and spaghetti recipes holding a special place in the hearts of her family.
Music was a source of great joy for Doris. She delighted in playing the piano and lending her voice to the church choir. Her dedication extended to her role as a church secretary for much of her adult life. Remarkably, she worked tirelessly until her early 90s, embodying a remarkable work ethic.
A Funeral Service to celebrate the life of Doris Buchanan will be held on Friday, September 29, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem, with Doug Romine officiating. Visitation will precede the service, starting at 9:30 a.m. Graveside services will follow that afternoon at the Tuscola Township Cemetery in Tuscola, Illinois, at 2:30 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Mission Salem or Sleep In Heavenly Peace, and they will be received at the funeral home. Online condolences and memories can be shared at www.CrouseFH.com.
