Millard Earl Buchanan

Millard Earl Buchanan, 81, passed away on February 3, 2024 at his residence, surrounded by his family.  Born March 6, 1942 on Allens Creek, he lived on Allens Creek and Camp Branch all his life.  Earl is preceded in death by his parents Millard and Shirley Muse Buchanan; Brother, Jack Buchanan and Sister, Emma Chastain.

Earl is survived by his loving wife of 60 years Shelba Buchanan; a daughter, Paula Nichols (Wayne); two sons, Tony Buchanan and Chad Buchanan (Geneva); Grandchildren; Colby Nichols (Jordan), Ross Buchanan, Sydney Withrow (Cody), Morgan Buchanan, Colton Buchanan, Casey Buchanan (Miles Chandler) and great-granddaughter Emmy Kate Chandler.  Earl is also survived by step grandchildren Caden and Kendalyn Massingale; Sister, Carolyn Roberson (Phillip); Brother, Joe Buchanan (Wanda); Sister-in-Law, Lou Buchanan; Brother-In-Law, Tommy Chastain.

The most enjoyable time of his life was the spring and summer when he could till and grow flowers and vegetables in his gardens.  He especially loved his dahlias.  He loved sharing his vegetables with neighbors, family and church family.  He had so much love in him that he “adopted” many children, young people and older adults when they needed a papaw, daddy or just love and care.

People he worked for became more than customers, they became friends and sometimes family.  He had a work ethic and tried to teach many over the years how to have a strong work ethic.

He loved his church family at Encouraging Word Baptist where he taught Sunday School, was a deacon, and founding member.  He loved missions and always wanted to support mission work.  He was always there to help a friend or family member in need whether it be physical or monetary help.

He loved miniature horses and had many over the years.  He worked them in his garden and, showed them in the county fair. His favorite thing to do with his horses was to pull children in carriages that he built just for that purpose.

He enjoyed making everyone laugh and when he was visited by those who knew he was sick, they always left uplifted by him.   He shared his faith in Jesus and the importance of reading, studying, and living by the word of God.  

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Encouraging Word Baptist Church with the Reverend Michael Horton and Dr. David Horton officiating.  The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at the church.  Burial will be at Buchanan Cemetery in Waynesville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Encouraging Word Baptist Church Future Development Fund, PO Box 797, Waynesville, NC  28786

The care of Mr. Buchanan has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville