Darrell “Doyle” Buchanan, age 74, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, October 31st, 2025 at Blue Ridge Regional Hospital. A native of Mitchell County, he was a son of the late Lonnie and Evelynn Ledford Buchanan. He was the husband of the late Penny Pitman Buchanan, who passed away in 2011. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Mike Stamey.
Doyle worked for many years with Blue Ridge Regional Hospital, where he was known for his dependable work ethic and friendly nature. Outside of work, he enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially hunting and fishing—two of his favorite pastimes. He attended Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, and his faith was deeply rooted in the name of Jesus, to whom he remained steadfastly devoted throughout his life. He only believed in and stayed faithful to the name of Jesus.
Doyle lived his life with quiet strength, faith, and love for his family. Left to cherish his memory are his son, Travis Buchanan and wife Pam of Coxes Creek; and his beloved grandson, Trevor, affectionately known as “Little T,” who brought him endless joy. Also surviving are his sisters: Rita Phillips (Mike) of Ridge Road and Pat Fisher (Morris “Pee-wee”) of McHone Road; brother, Jim Buchanan (Vonnie) of Charlie Brown Road; uncle, Wayne Ledford of Little Switzerland; aunt, Kathy Ledford of Tempie Mountain Road; and sisters-in-law, Donna Phillips (Randy) of Franklintown Road and Melissa Ellen Pitman of Newland. He is also survived by his nephew, Mark Fisher, and nieces: Brandy Phillips, Tracy Thomas, and Shelly Burse, along with several extended family members who loved him dearly.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 6th, 2025, at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m., with Rev. Billy Ledford officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice and Palliative Care of the Blue Ridge for the compassionate care provided to Doyle. Memorial donations may be made to the family to help with funeral expenses by visiting www.yanceyfuneralservice.com. Yancey Funeral Services is serving the Buchanan family.
