James E. Buchanan

James E. (Jim) Buchanan, 88, of Phoenix Arizona entered heaven August 25, 2021, peacefully at home with his wife and son Brian at his side, just 12 days after his 88th birthday. Jim was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas to Sue B. (Futrell) and Ralph Edwin Buchanan. Jim attended school in the Jonesboro area and later graduated from Jordan High School in Long Beach, California.

Following school Jim joined the Army and spent the next two years a Radio Operator with the7th Armored Division where he received the National Defense Medal. After being discharged he met his wife, Bette Sheldon, and after a whirlwind courtship they were married in Long Beach, California. Jim and Bette had two great sons together, Brian and Ronald. After moving to Arizona in 1971, Jim was employed with the Veteran's Hospital in Phoenix as a Building Engineer. He worked there until he retired.

Jim joined the Army Reserve under the Universal Military Training Division where he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant.

Jim had his first flying lesson at age 19, but didn't get his license until in his 30s. Jim had his own airplane (a Cessna “bug smasher”), which was a lifelong dream. After retirement he volunteered at the annual EAA (Experimental Aviation Association) Fly-in yearly. He did weight-and-balance on new or rebuilt aircraft all over the state of Arizona.

Jim and Bette loved cruising, especially to Alaska. They also cruised through the Panama Canal and to see the Aztec ruins.

After he had to give up flying, he harnessed his wonderful sense of humor in cartooning, meeting instructor Loyd Littlepage who became his best friend. Jim scattered cartoons any place he went, restaurants, doctors offices, hospitals and anyone else he came in contact with. Even while under Hospice care, he did cartoons for the aide(s) and nurses.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, most of his relatives and many friends.

Jim leaves behind his wife of 65 years (Bette), sons Brian and Ronald (Verica), and grandchildren Lidijia, Melissa and Michael. He also leaves his cousin, Charles Lindley and friend, Loyd Littlepage.

He's flying to the stars...