James Buchanan's Obituary
James “Jim” Buchanan, 87, of Odessa, Florida, passed away on July 30, 2025. He was born on February 12, 1938, one of five siblings with his brother and three sisters. After graduating from high school, Jim began his 42-year-long career in carpentry. He was a union carpenter from 1957 until his retirement in 1999 and helped construct many of the buildings in downtown Tampa. He also held a welding certification from Tampa Electric Big Bend Power Station. Jim served his country for six years with the United States Army Reserves, where he earned the rank of Sergeant.
Jim and Diane, his wife of 61 years, had a daughter Heather, who was the apple of his eye. His family was always his number one priority, and he took care of Heather for four and a half years while Diane worked in the evenings. A true outdoorsman, Jim could often be found on the water, competing initially in bass fishing tournaments before discovering his love of saltwater fishing. He was very proud of the three deer he successfully hunted during a trip to Ocala. Jim also used his carpentry skills for his family’s benefit when he built their home in Lake Wood with the help of some friends.
Jim will be remembered by all who knew him as a kind, honest, and hardworking man. He was a loving and caring husband, father, and uncle. He is survived by his devoted wife Diane, his daughter Heather, and his many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and all four of his siblings.
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