Aaron “Wade” Buchanan, 81, of Connelly Springs, NC, passed peacefully in the early morning hours of July 25, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Only hours before, our heavenly Father allowed him a peak into heaven and Wade could not contain his joy! A memory that his family will cherish forever in the days and years to follow.

Wade was born in Mitchell County, NC on September 19, 1941 to Clayte Jerome Buchanan and Sina Ann Ledford Buchanan. Left to cherish his memory include his wife of 60 years, Brenda Buchanan, sons, Phillip Buchanan (Carla), Mark Buchanan, and daughter, Lorie Buchanan Byrd, as well as 5 grandchildren; Caroline Byrd, Cayla Byrd, John Buchanan, Quenton Buchanan, Peyton Buchanan, and one great grandchild, Zayne Bryant.

Wade is also survived by his sister, June Buchanan Lowman of Hickory, NC and brother, Richard (Debra) Smith of Hildebran, NC and Edward Smith of Monroe, NC. There are many nephews, nieces, and cousins that will recall Wade’s beautiful blue eyes and kindness.

He was predeceased by his parents and felt the loss deeply with the passing of sisters Veda Kaylor, Delores Thomas, Georgia Turner, and Dorothy Ann, and brothers, Hayden Buchanan, Avery Buchanan, and Bill Buchanan.

Wade was a well known and respected painter in Catawba County, and for a few years, in Florida. Finding that place too hot for a mountain boy, he and his family returned to Hickory, where he remained and established a reputation as an in-demand painter for decades.

He retired years ago and loved the outdoors and one could find him often fishing, hunting or golfing, but his best times were spent with family at family reunions and the Christmas season. He made sure his kids always had the best memories of Christmas!
There are people who are good hearted; people who put their needs last; but none more giving than him. If you needed anything and he had it to give, he gave it with a pure heart regardless of who it was.

He was simply … a fantastic father who loved his family unconditionally.

In memory of Wade, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Buchanan residence located at 8376 Warlick Drive, Connelly Springs, NC, at 2:00pm on Saturday, July 29, 2023.

The family has requested no memorials nor flowers and extend an invitation to all who knew Wade and his family.

Arrangements provided by Mackie Funeral Service, Granite Falls, NC.