Amanda L. Buchanan

Mandy Laraine Buchanan passed peacefully from this life on November 16, 2022 in Laurel, Mississippi surrounded by her loving family. Mandy leaves behind a tremendous legacy and will be greatly missed by all those who knew her. Born on August 2, 1968, Mandy was a lifelong resident of Mississippi where she devoted her life to the service of others and where she brought immeasurable joy to her community. Mandy was preceded in death by her father, T.K. Kuykendall. Mandy is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 27 years, Carl Buchanan; her two sons, Samuel Thomas Buchanan and George Edward Buchanan; her mother, Julie Lucky Kuykendall; brother-in-law, David Buchanan (Becca); sisters-in-law, Tammy Martin (Ken) and Michele Hutto (Johnny Mack). Mandy is also survived by her dearest friends, Adam and Casey Sauls. Mandy leaves behind a host of special friends who love her dearly and will treasure every memory made with her during Mandy’s lifetime. Mandy graduated from Jones County Junior College in 1988 and from the University of Southern Mississippi with her Bachelor’s Degree in 1991. Mandy continued her pursuit of education and obtained a Master’s Degree in Art Education from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1992. Mandy dedicated her life to her family, friends, community, and her love of the arts. Her true servant’s heart could be seen in her commitment to share her talents with her community and in every life that she brightened during her 54 years on this earth. Her talents will be most remembered through her beautiful artwork that is lovingly displayed in countless homes, churches, and businesses bringing smiles to the faces of anyone who encounters them. Mandy’s paintings, much like Mandy’s personality, bring sunshine and joy to any room where they are displayed. Her infectious laugh and one of a kind smile are engraved in the memories of those who will forever miss her and will never forget the way she touched their lives through her talents, her gifts, and most of all her friendship. As a former educator at Laurel High School and Jones College, Mandy mentored many students and helped to instill and foster a love of the arts. Mandy spent countless hours painting backdrops and stage props during her years as a teacher and also for Laurel Little Theater. Throughout the city of Laurel, murals, utility boxes, and newspaper stands boast Mandy’s artistic talents and will forever remain treasures in our community and lovely reminders of Mandy’s kindness, selflessness, and passion for spreading joy to others. As a life member of Junior Auxiliary, Mandy was recognized in 2011 with the Golden Crown Award and again in 2018 with the Humanitarian Award, representing her deep devotion to the children of Laurel and Jones County. Mandy served the Lauren Rogers Museum of Arts for many years and was a loyal contributor of her time and talents for numerous fundraisers. During her time at the museum, she served as Director of Education and founded the outreach education program. Serving the Laurel Arts League as an active member from 1996-2006 and thereafter as a life member for many years, Mandy demonstrated her selflessness through her dedication to Day in the Park, Heritage Arts Festival, and Very Special Arts. As a life member, she remained deeply involved in the arts league and was always willing to donate her time and talents to meet any need presented. Mandy was a member of Crosspoint Community Church of Laurel, served on the board of Laurel Main Street, and was an avid participant in community events such as En Plein Air and Loblolly Festival. She was also a member of Mississippi Art Colony, National Association of Art Educators, and Delta Kappa Gamma. A testament to her faith and encouraging nature, Mandy’s favorite verse was Isaiah 40:31, “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” A celebration of Mandy’s life will be at First Baptist Church of Laurel on November 18, 2022 with visitation from 10:00-12:00 and a service at 1:00, followed by graveside in Sandersville for family. Pallbearers will be David Buchanan, Johnny Mack Hutto, Ken Martin, Adam Sauls, Russ Griffin, and Paul Read. Honorary Pallbearers will be Robby Scruggs, Jamie Sisk, Lew Yoder, Mark Brown, and Hoss Nasajpour. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to the Lauren Rogers Museum of Arts. In honor of Mandy’s vivacious personality and paintings, please wear bright colors to the service to remember the Mandy who we will forever cherish. To sign the online guest book, visit www.memorychapellaurel.com.

Amanda L. Buchanan

August 2, 1968 - November 16, 2022