Mandy Buchanan Obituary, Death – On November 16, 2022, Mandy Laraine Buchanan quietly left this world in Laurel, Mississippi, surrounded by her devoted family. All those who knew Mandy say she leaves behind a magnificent legacy and will be sorely missed.
Mandy, who was born on August 2, 1968, lived her entire life in Mississippi, where she dedicated herself to helping people and provided great joy to her neighborhood. T.K. Kuykendall, Mandy’s father, died before her.
Her two boys, Samuel Thomas and George Edward Buchanan, her mother Julie Lucky Kuykendall, her brother-in-law David Buchanan (Becca), and sisters-in-law Tammy Martin (Ken) and Michele Hutto survive Mandy. She was married to Carl Buchanan for 27 years (Johnny Mak). Adam and Casey Sauls, two of Mandy’s closest pals, are also still alive. Mandy leaves behind a large group of close friends who adore her and will cherish every experience they shared with her while she was alive.
Mandy earned her associate’s degree from Jones County Junior College in 1988 and her bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1991. Mandy persisted in her studies and graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1992 with a master’s degree in art education. Mandy devoted her life to her loved ones, her friends, her community, and the arts. In her dedication to giving back to her community and to each lives she touched during her 54 years on earth, her true servant’s heart was evident.
Her wonderful artwork, which is passionately exhibited in countless homes, churches, and businesses and brings joy to everyone who sees it, will be remembered for her talents the most. Like Mandy’s attitude, Mandy’s paintings bring cheer and sunshine to whatever space in which they are placed. She left a lasting impression on all who knew her by her talents, her gifts, and most importantly, her friendship. Her contagious laugh and unique smile will always be remembered.
Mandy taught numerous kids while working as an educator at Laurel High School and Jones College, where she assisted in fostering a love of the arts. Throughout her career as a teacher and for Laurel Little Theater, Mandy devoted countless hours to painting backgrounds and stage decorations. Murals, utility boxes, and newspaper stands all throughout the city of Laurel feature Mandy’s artistic abilities and will always be gems in our neighborhood and charming reminders of Mandy’s kindness, selflessness, and enthusiasm for sharing joy with others.
Mandy is a life member of the Junior Auxiliary, and in recognition of her unwavering commitment to the youth of Laurel and Jones County, she received the Golden Crown Award in 2011 and the Humanitarian Award again in 2018. Mandy worked at the Lauren Rogers Museum of Arts for many years and generously donated her time and skills to various fundraising events. She established the outreach education program while working at the museum as the director of education.
Mandy exemplified her selflessness by dedicating herself to Day in the Park, Heritage Arts Festival, and Very Special Arts while serving the Laurel Arts League as an active member from 1996 to 2006 and then as a life member for many years after that. She continued to be actively involved in the arts league as a life member, and she was constantly prepared to provide her time and skills to meet any need that could arise.
Mandy participated actively in neighborhood events like En Plein Air and the Loblolly Festival, was a member of the Laurel Crosspoint
Community Church, and served on the board of Laurel Main Street. In addition, she belonged to Delta Kappa Gamma, the National Association of Art Educators, and the Mississippi Art Colony. Mandy’s favorite passage was Isaiah 40:31, which states that “those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength,” which is a testament to her faith and encouraging personality. They will fly like eagles, run without getting tired, and stroll without feeling dizzy.
On November 18, 2022, a service honoring Mandy’s life will be held at First Baptist Church of Laurel, with visitation from 10:00–12:00 and a cemetery service for family members at 1:00. David Buchanan, Johnny Mak Hutto, Ken Martin, Adam Sauls, Russ Griffin, and Paul Read will serve as pallbearers. Robby Scruggs, Jamie Sisk, Lew Yoder, Mark Brown, and Hoss Nasajpour will serve as honorary pallbearers.
The family requests donations be sent to the Lauren Rogers Museum of Arts in lieu of flowers. Please wear vibrant colors to the service in celebration of Mandy’s exuberant personality and paintings to remember the Mandy who we will always adore.
