Sylvia M Buchanan

She was born in Albany, NY in 1943, the daughter of William and Frances Barnes and the sister of Phil and Roger. Sue attended primary and secondary schools in Schenectady, NY before earning her teaching degree at SUNY at Potsdam. She met her husband, Jim Buchanan, while attending college, and they married in 1966 in Colonie, NY.

Sue was a loving and devoted mother to Kelly Thomas, Todd Buchanan, and Emily Lach. She also had three granddaughters, Devon Thomas, Allison Lach, and Aubrey Lach, and three grandsons, Zachary Thomas, Mitchell Thomas, and Owen Lach. Sue enjoyed many years of playing a special role in her grandchildren’s lives. A long-time member of Peace Lutheran Church in Alexandria VA, she volunteered in a number of roles, including teaching Sunday School, participating in a food support program for a local school, and participating in the Church’s bell choir and gardening programs.

Sue was a beloved teacher for over 35 years, teaching in New York, Massachusetts, Argentina, New Jersey, and Virginia. Her last 25 years in the classroom were spent in Fairfax County kindergartens at Lynbrook, Manuta and, most extensively, Belvedere Elementary Schools. She was recognized as Teacher of the Year in 1988. After retiring in 1999, she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and sharing a passion for gardening with her husband. Sue was an avid knitter, fond of making blankets, hats, and scarves for family members and donating her handiwork to charity organizations. She was also an avid reader who inspired a similar passion in her children, grandchildren, and students.

Sue’s son Todd passed away in 2011. She is survived by her husband Jim, daughters Kelly and Emily and their families and her brother Phil, none of whom will ever forget the love she brought to their lives.

Funeral service followed by a reception will be held at 11 am on Saturday, June 29, at Peace Lutheran Church in Alexandria, VA. In lieu of flowers, those who wish are asked to consider donating to the Peace Lutheran Church Belvedere Food Program in Sue’s name. Donations can be made through the Church’s website and selecting “Give to Belvedere Food Bags.”