Julie Buckner Buchanan

   Julie Maria Buckner Buchanan, 46, of Marion, passed away Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at the Solace Center in Asheville.

     Julie was born in Burke County, NC on February 11, 1977, to Judy Moore Buckner and the late Sam Buckner. She was married to Michael Kristin Buchanan. Julie was very fond of the outdoors. She was a beloved and faithful member of Liberty Free Will Baptist Church, where she passionately coordinated various ministries: coat drive and soup kitchen, Operation Christmas Child Shoebox drives and she taught children bible classes. Julie also skillfully directed numerous successful Vacation Bible Schools. Julie had an infectious smile that lit up a room. She was the director of enrollment at McDowell Tech. She was over the graduations, blood drives, and had a booth at all the festivals. Julie enjoyed coffee, trying new foods, and was always helping others. 

     In addition to her father, Julie was preceded in death by her grandmother, Maria Adkins.

     She is survived by her husband, Michael Buchanan; her mother, Judy Buckner; a daughter, Amelia Padgett; and a step daughter, Emma Buchanan. 

     A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, January 22, 2024, at Beam Celebration Center. Rev. Harold Webb will officiate; and Breana Wilson and Jill Hensley will assist. Special music will be provided by her friend, Rebecca Thomas. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., prior to the service, at the Celebration Center. 

     Memorial contributions may be made to ALS United NC, 4 N. Blount Street, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27601.