Joan B. Buchanan

Joan Carolyn Buchanan passed away peacefully at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis on February 9, 2017. Joan was born on October 4, 1927 to Carl and Agnes (Neill) Boyd in Donora, Pennsylvania. Following her graduation from Langley High School in Pittsburgh, Joan received her B.A. (and teaching license) from California State Teachers College. She taught high school English, speech and drama for many years and influenced and inspired countless students during her career.

In 1950 she married Robert Thomas “Tom” Buchanan, who preceded her in death in 1981. Through her husband’s career in the international division of Eli Lilly, Joan experienced the privilege of living in Belgium, Switzerland, Brazil and finally Guatemala before returning to settle in Indianapolis.

Joan was a long-term member of Northminster Presbyterian Church where she enjoyed singing in the choir for many years. Joan possessed a kind heart, a gentle smile, and was a friend to all who met her. She deeply loved her family, and absolutely adored her four grandchildren and one great-grandson.

Joan was preceded in death by her brother, Donald W. Boyd. She will be greatly missed by her sister, Dale Boyd Roman (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania), her three children, Jan Page Buchanan (Seattle, Washington), Pamela Joan Buchanan (Weems, Virginia), Robert Thomas Buchanan, Jr. (Carmel, Indiana), her four grandchildren, Courtney Olson-Chen, Ryan Thomas Olson, Sam Sholto Smith, Emily Lauren Buchanan, and her great-grandson, Oliver David Chen.

Private family services will be observed. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Indianapolis, 7929 Michigan Road,
Indianapolis, IN 46268, or the donor’s choice of charity. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flanner and Buchanan- Washington Park North.