Harold Dempsey Buchanan

Harold Dempsey Buchanan of Sylva NC, known affectionately as Dempsey, passed away on July 16, 2023, at the age of 86. Born on August 10, 1936, in Jackson County, he was the son of the late Roy and Luna Buchanan.

Dempsey led a remarkable life filled with dedication and love. He proudly served his country as a helicopter mechanic in the United States Marine Corps for four years. After his military service, he worked at the shipyard in Newport News, VA for five years. Dempsey's strong work ethic carried on throughout his career as he retired from Dayco after an impressive 37 years of service. Additionally, he spent 19 fulfilling years as a train engineer at Santa's Land in Cherokee, NC.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dempsey was an exceptional man who valued his relationships deeply. He cherished his family and friends and always made sure to show them just how much they meant to him. Dempsey's unwavering faith brought him great joy and comfort throughout his life; his love for his church and the Lord were evident to all who knew him.

In his spare time, Dempsey enjoyed pursuing a variety of hobbies that brought him immense pleasure. He had a passion for fishing and hunting—activities that allowed him to connect with nature and revel in its beauty. As a devoted fan of LA Dodgers and UNC Tar Heel basketball,  Dempsey cheered on his favorite teams with great enthusiasm and loyalty.

Dempsey was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters, and three brothers.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 55 years, Linda Buchanan; children, Pete Lowe and his wife Roseanne, Angie Boudreau, Robin Sing-Cunningham and her husband Berris, Sherri Lowe, Rick Buchanan and his wife Jessica; thirteen grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

To honor Dempsey's life, a visitation will be held on Thursday July 20, 2023, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Appalachian Funeral Services located at 165 Skyland Drive in Sylva, NC. Following the visitation, a funeral service will take place at 2:00 PM with Rev. Tom Lavin officiating. Interment will follow at Greens Creek Cemetery with Marine Corps Honors. Family and friends are encouraged to attend and pay tribute to a man who touched the lives of many.

In remembering Dempsey Buchanan, let us celebrate his remarkable journey and the tremendous impact he made on those around him. His unwavering love for family, friends, church, and his faith will continue to inspire and guide all who were fortunate enough to know him. Dempsey will be deeply missed but never forgotten as his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he loved. May he rest in eternal peace.                                                                                                                      

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the ministry of Greens Creek Baptist Church of Sylva, NC or Four Seasons Hospice of Flat Rock, NC.