Mary was born in Oceanside, California on April 9th, 1955. She was a graduate of Oceanside High School and an outstanding athlete in the times when girls weren't given the opportunity to participate in most sports.
Mary pursued a career in the medical field and her first job was at Oceanside Community Hospital, where she was born, and as an administrator at Smith Hanna Medical Center and various medical facilities for over 30 years.
Mary's passion was students of all ages... Her heart was to ensure they succeeded in school. She loved volunteering with all sports and activities. She held various roles in volunteering at track meets and golf tournaments. She loved to see the kids smile as she rooted them on and challenging them with her cheering along the way. Then she would quietly be listening when all didn't go well and then pump them back up. Mary will be missed at functions by the students, alumni, coaches, and parents.
Mary is proceeded in death by her father, Supt. Mance Buchanon Jr., mother Ethel Mae Buchanon founders of Shiloh COGIC 59 years ago, her brother Carl Edward Buchanon. She is survived by her brothers Willie James Buchanon (Gail), Timothy Carroll Buchanon (Sandra), Leslie Jenkins (Deborah) and honorary brother Carlton Hanna Brown (Regina), nieces and nephews Diondra Osterberg (Jason), Joseph Buchanon, Jenae Buchanon, William Buchanon (Evelinda), Brooke Booker ( Richard ), Asa Buchanon, Lacey Burks and a host of family.
