James Delbert Buchanan

James Delbert Buchanan, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and accomplished musician, passed away on March 5, 2026, at the age of 85. He was born on January 1, 1941, and was preceded in death by his cherished wife of forty-five years, Emma Jean Lee Buchanan; his parents, Clato Homer Buchanan and Lola Lee Denny Buchanan; his sister, Pansy Buchanan Burns; his brother-in-law, Martin Burns; and his nephew, Martin Rodney Burns.

James is survived by his present wife, Lynda Dunlap Buchanan; his five children, Delbert (Beth), Mark, Ron (Connie), David (Mari), and Jan Buchanan; his step-children, Lisa Klasen, Doug (Michelle) Ferguson, and Wendy Ferguson; his grandchildren, Neal (Laura) Buchanan, James Buchanan, Connor Buchanan, Eli Ferguson, and Leo Ferguson; and one great-grandchild, Lily Grace Buchanan.

Born and raised in Drexel, North Carolina, James held a profound affection for his hometown and its people throughout his life. Music was the cornerstone of his existence, a passion ignited at a young age by his father, Clato “Buck” Buchanan, a talented fiddler who nurtured James’s musical talents by introducing him to various stringed instruments around their home. A self-taught prodigy, James began performing alongside his father in the Southeast, before honing his skills further with Joe Franklin over the weekends and Kathryn Siphers at Drexel High School during the week.

His musical journey led him to Nashville, where he joined renowned groups such as Jim and Jesse and the Virginia Boys. Over the years, James graced the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and recorded with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Ronnie Milsap, Barbara Mandrell, Ringo Starr, and The Doors. In 1970, he became a member of Mel Tillis’s Statesiders, as well as touring the world and collaborating with mandolin artist David Grisman, earning a Grammy nomination for their work together. James's influential career also saw him record several notable albums, including Dan Fogelberg’s acclaimed “High Country Snows”, Ringo Starr's "Beaucoup of Blues", and The Doors "Silent Parade". He later joined the iconic George Jones, sharing his musical talents until his retirement.

Despite the fame and accolades, James remained grounded and devoted to his community and family. In his later years, he found great joy in playing the fiddle at his church on Sunday mornings, sharing his love of music with those around him.

James will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, and the indelible mark he left on the world of music. His legacy lives on through his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched through his art.

The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The graveside service will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Burke Memorial Park with Rev. Shawn Milburn officiating. There will also be a celebration of life on April 11, 2026 in Franklin, TN.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a music education charity or scholarship of your choice, honoring James's lifelong passion for music.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.