James Delbert Buchanan

James Delbert Buchanan, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and accomplished musician, passed away on March 5, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on January 1, 1941, in Drexel, North Carolina, he carried a deep affection for his hometown and its people throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his first wife of forty-five years, Emma Jean Lee Buchanan; his parents, Clato Homer Buchanan and Lola Lee Denny Buchanan; his sister, Pansy Buchanan Burns; his brother-in-law, Martin Burns; and his nephew, Martin Rodney Burns.

Music defined James from an early age. His father, Clato “Buck” Buchanan, a talented fiddler, introduced him to stringed instruments, sparking a passion that shaped his life. A self-taught musician, James began performing with his father across the Southeast. He later honed his skills with Joe Franklin and Kathryn Siphers before moving to Nashville, where he played with Jim and Jesse and the Virginia Boys. He graced the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and recorded with notable artists including Ronnie Milsap, Barbara Mandrell, Ringo Starr, and The Doors. In 1970, he joined Mel Tillis’s Statesiders, toured extensively, and collaborated with mandolin virtuoso David Grisman, earning a Grammy nomination. His recordings included Dan Fogelberg’s “High Country Snows,” Ringo Starr’s “Beaucoup of Blues,” and The Doors’ “Silent Parade.” He later performed with George Jones until his retirement. In his later years, he found quiet joy playing fiddle each Sunday morning at his church.

James is survived by his wife, Lynda Dunlap Buchanan; his children, Delbert (Beth), Mark, Ron (Connie), David (Mari), and Jan Buchanan; his stepchildren, Lisa Klasen, Doug (Michelle) Ferguson, and Wendy Ferguson; his grandchildren, Neal (Laura) Buchanan, James Buchanan, Connor Buchanan, Eli Ferguson, and Leo Ferguson; and one great-grandchild, Lily Grace Buchanan.

He will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, and the lasting impact he made through his music and his devotion to family and community.