John Elmer Buchanan

John Elmer Buchanan, 94 of Morganton, passed away and went to his Heavenly Home on Friday, October 28, 2022.

Born in Avery County on November 30, 1927, he was the son of the late John Vassas Buchanan and Emma Elizabeth McCoy Buchanan. John was a proud US Army veteran of WWII, serving from 1945-1947 and spending most of his military time in the Philippine Islands. One of his most cherished memories was being able to go on the Honor Air Flight to Washington DC to see the WWII Memorial. John was a member of Southside Baptist Church where he was the last surviving charter member. He retired from Drexel Heritage after 42 years as the Supervisor for Plants 3 and 5. After retirement, John enjoyed woodworking in his shop. He was a hardcore Atlanta Braves fan. John was a member of the Gideons. He had a big passion for pitching horseshoes where he was a Burke County Recreation Horseshoe Champion and went on to be a NC State Champion in his class. John liked to volunteer at the soup kitchen and was a Blue Blazer usher at COMMA. He also enjoyed card playing, working puzzles, and going fishing.

Left to cherish his memory are sons Randy Buchanan and Jerry Buchanan; grandkids, David, Jeff, John, Matthew, and Adam Buchanan; a number of great-grandchildren; and sisters, Mary Lowdermilk and Martha Sharp.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Velma Clay Buchanan; brothers, Gilbert Buchanan, Riley Buchanan, Fonzer Buchanan, and J.V. Buchanan, infant brother, Samuel Buchanan; and sister; Nancy Hughes.

A visitation will be held from 1-2pm, Tuesday, November 1, 2022 at Southside Baptist Church. A funeral service for Mr. Buchanan will be held at 2pm in the church with the Revs. Clarence Correll, Jr. and Lawrence Robertson officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park with military honors provided by the NC National Guard and Caldwell County Veterans Honor Guard.

In lieu of flower, memorial contributions may be made to Giedion’s International and the American Diabetes Association.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.