Obituary
Guest Book
Frank Edward Buchanan was born on May 20, 1934, in Gratton, VA, to the late, William Elbert Buchanan and Josie Cox Buchanan. He passed away on December 9, 2025, in Bristol, TN.
Frank's journey in life began in the rolling hills of Southwestern Virginia, where he worked on his family farm. He graduated from Tazewell High School in Tazewell, VA, and furthered his education by attending McClain's Business College in Bluefield, VA. While living in Bluefield he met the love of his life, Darlene Atwell. His career consisted of years at Jewell Ridge Coal Company and Bluefield Supply Company, ultimately retiring from Noland Company in Bluefield, WV. His work ethic and commitment to providing for his family were evident throughout his life.
A proud veteran, Frank served honorably in the United States Army, and took Darlene with him "on adventure" to Germany while he was stationed there. He was a Master Mason and member of Harmon Lodge in Bluefield, VA.
Frank was a devoted husband to Darlene and a loving father to his daughter, Elaine. He was role model of the finest kind. He shared his heart, lived his faith, gave his time and loved his family unconditionally. After moving to Abingdon 2001, he took great pleasure in being an active part of his grandchildren's lives. Allen and Abigail were blessed to have him as a dependable chauffeur and all around great Poppaw.
Frank's love for his family was unmatched, as was his mischievous sense of humor. He delighted in teasing everyone. He also enjoyed making old things new again. He left many family heirlooms that were brought back to life by his gentle hands and attention to detail.
In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in death by his loving wife of 64 years, Darlene Atwell Buchanan; brother, Glenn Buchanan and his wife Joyce and nephew, Keith Buchanan.
Frank is survived by his daughter, Elaine Buchanan Daniels and her husband, Uley S. Daniels, Jr., two grandchildren, Allen Scott Daniels (Alison Davis) and Abigail Kathleen Daniels (Jonathan Gonzalez) and one great-grandson, Allen (A.J.) Scott Daniels, Jr., niece Barbara Buchanan, brother-in-law, Robert Clay Atwell Sr. and his wife Ruth and their children, Robert Clay, Jr., Linda, and Shannon.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant View Methodist Church or a charity close to your heart.
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Frank Edward Buchanan will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA with Rev. Barbara Farmer officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.
The family of Frank Edward Buchanan is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service & Crematory- Forest Hills Chapel, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA 276-623-2700.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
427 E Main St., Abingdon, VA 24210-3407

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more