Cherrie L. Buchanan

Cherrie L. McClee Buchanan was born June 19, 1932, in Greenwood, Mississippi to Flan McClee Sr. and Janie Jackson. Upon the passing of her mother, Cherrie, the youngest of four children, was reared by her father's brother and wife, George Washington and Katie McClee, affectionately known as "Uncle Wash" and "Mama Kate." Confessing her faith in Christ at an early age, Cherrie was baptized at Strangers' Home Baptist Church, Greenwood, MS where she faithfully sang in the choir.

After graduating from high school, Cherrie received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Mississippi Valley State University, Itta Bena, MS. Later, she earned a Master's Degree in Education from Sul Ross State University, Alpine, TX and a diploma in Interior Decorating from La Salle Extension University, Chicago IL.

In 1968, Cherrie migrated to El Paso with her husband James E. Buchanan who was stationed at Ft. Bliss, TX. She maintained her new Texas household as a military wife, loving mother, and professional educator.

Sister Buchanan united with Shiloh Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Dr. Howard Humphrey, regularly attending worship services and bible study. She continued her love of singing in the Shiloh Senior Choir, while also serving in the Ministers and Deacon Wives Ministry, Mission Circle No. II and Seniors Ministry. Throughout the 20-year tenure of Dr. Ponce L. Brown, Cherrie dutifully served in multiple ministries. Devotedly, she provided financial and spiritual support to all ministry endeavors of Shiloh Baptist Church. Upon Pastor Brown's retirement, Cherrie warmly welcomed Pastor Christopher C. White. Until the very day of her transition, Sister Buchanan maintained warmhearted and loyal relationships with her "Shiloh Baptist Family."

A retired educator from the El Paso Independent School District and El Paso Community College, Cherrie taught for fifty years at the college, elementary and middle school levels. Innately artistic and creative, she encouraged and challenged all her students in both Academics and Fine Arts. She reveled in their accomplishments and proudly celebrated their achievements in the annual Black History Art Show. The EPISD Board of Trustees recognized her endeavors to promote and to display student artwork which was enjoyed by EPISD personnel and visitors.

Cherrie loved to serve her community. She was a Life Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Phyllis Wheatley Civic Club, Texas Retired Teachers Association, and volunteered with numerous other civic organizations. Throughout her life, Cherrie received countless accolades including: Teacher of the Year (MacArthur Middle School), Soror of the Year (Eta Pi Omega Chapter, AKA Sorority, Inc.), Yellow Rose Award (Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.-Texas Council) and Mayor's Award for the parade floats designed for the El Paso Inter-Club Council representing the Black El Paso Community. She made an indelible impression and impact on the lives of so many.

Cherrie was preceded in death by her husband, James E. Buchanan, her parents, and siblings: Earnest McClee, Flan McClee Jr. and Margaret McClee Sanders, all of Greenwood, MS.

She is survived by her son Derek M. Moore, daughter Jacqueline D. Moore and stepsons James Jr. and Kenneth Buchanan; four grandchildren: Unika C. Buchanan, Angela R. Reed, Ashley N. Reed and Albert Reed III. A host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, friends and church family will cherish the memories of their beloved Cherrie.

Cherrie traveled extensively and enjoyed her life to the fullest. She brought joy, laughter and her love of fashion into each experience. She loved God, was "spirit-filled" and remained positive throughout her last days. Cherrie Buchanan will forever be remembered with much love and admiration. May her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ receive her into His loving, peaceful kingdom.

Visitation will be from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Thursday, October 24, 2024 at Sunset Funeral Homes- East, 750 N. Carolina. Visitation will resume at 10:30 AM with a Funeral Service at 11:30 AM, Friday, October 25, 2024 at Shiloh Baptist Church, 3201 Frutas. Graveside Service will follow at 1:30 PM at Fort Bliss National Cemetery.