John K. Buchanan

John Kenneth Buchanan, 87, of San Angelo, Texas, transitioned from life here on earth on Monday, May 26, 2025, and now lives in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

John was born on January 16, 1938, in Proctor, Swain County, North Carolina, to Minnie E. Buchanan. At a young age, he left high school to join the United States Air Force in 1955. He later earned his General Educational Development (GED) certificate, demonstrating his commitment to personal growth and education.

John had a deep desire to serve his country during the Korean War, but while he was unable to do so, he proudly served in the United States Air Force for 20 years and 19 days. He retired in June 1975, having served during the Vietnam War. Throughout his military career, he worked as a mechanic on missions that supported war operations in Vietnam from bases in Thailand and Okinawa. He also served as a crew chief on flights transporting senior Department of Defense officials and other prominent political figures.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, John continued his aviation career as an aircraft mechanic for several years before transitioning to work as an over-the-road truck driver. He primarily drove routes throughout Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon, enjoying the freedom and solitude of the open road. John lived in Kerrville and surrounding areas from the late 1990’s until he moved to San Angelo in 2014 where lived the last 11 years.

John accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior at the age of 10 or 11 in North Carolina. His faith in Jesus Christ remained the cornerstone of his life. He was actively involved in various churches—particularly in Maryland during his last six years in the military and later in Montana after his Air Force retirement. In his final years, John lived in Texas, where he remained a faithful member of local churches. He was passionate about serving others, studying Scripture, and engaging in fellowship with other believers. He especially enjoyed sharing insights from his Bible study and spending time in conversation with friends and loved ones.

Even in the final weeks of his life, John found deep comfort in the Psalms, reflecting the strength and peace he drew from his faith in Jesus Christ throughout his life.

John is preceded in death by his mother, Minnie Buchanan; Mary Howard Buchanan the mother of their three children; Dorothy Everett Buchanan his wife of 10 years; and his youngest daughter Virginia Buchanan. John is survived by his son Ken (Leon) Buchanan and wife Fran of San Angelo, Texas; and daughter Pattie Minchew and husband Andy of Billings, Montana; grandchildren: Kim and husband Brian, Amber, Amanda, Kerry, Sam, Joseph, and Mary Lee, and great-grandchildren: Jacoby, Brad, Natalie, Ezra, Aria, Eleanor, and Iris.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at 9:00am, at Kerrville Funeral Home.

Services will be at 10:00am, Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at Kerrville Funeral Home.

Burial with full military honors will take place at 2:00pm, Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas.

Services with integrity, pride, and honor are under the direction of Kerrville Funeral Home. (830) 895-5111