Lola Mae Carpenter Buchanan, age 58, of Newland, North Carolina, passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2026.
Born on October 22, 1967, in Crossnore, Avery County, Lola was the daughter of Mary Ruth Crump Carpenter and the late William Cecil Carpenter.
Lola was a dedicated and hardworking woman who spent much of her life in the restaurant industry as a manager. She was known for her strong work ethic, her friendly nature, and her ability to connect with just about anyone she met. She truly never met a stranger.
Above all, Lola was a devoted mother and grandmother. Her family was the center of her world, and she always put her children and grandchildren first. She loved deeply and gave freely, always wanting the very best for those she loved.
She found joy in life’s simple pleasures to include, camping and spending time outdoors, sewing, arts and crafts, and treasure-hunting while thrift store shopping. She also enjoyed collecting Hot Wheels cars and had a special way of seeing the good in everyone. Lola had a gift for conversation and could make anyone feel welcome and valued.
She is survived by her mother, Mary Ruth Carpenter; her children: Nikki Buchanan (Frank Barlow) of Little Squirrel Creek and Brandon Buchanan (Kayla) of Newland; her cherished grandchildren: Samuel Konz, Lindsey Konz, Everly Buchanan, Norah Buchanan, Wyatt Buchanan, Harlan Buchanan, and Clara Buchanan; her brothers: Norman Carpenter and Richard Carpenter; her sisters: Betty Ann Byrd, Brenda Carpenter, and Cindy Roland (Steve Thomas); and her significant other, Mackie Jones. She also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.
In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her brothers Phillip Dale Carpenter, Sherman Carpenter, and Steve Carpenter.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at Minneapolis Baptist Church, where she attended with her family. Pastor Andrew McKinney will officiate the service. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until the service hour. Interment will follow at the Ed Buchanan Cemetery on Birchfield Creek Road, Newland.
Lola will be remembered for her faith in her Lord, kind heart, her strength, and the love she poured into her family. Her presence brought warmth and comfort to those around her, and her memory will be treasured always.
The family requests memorials be sent to Minneapolis Baptist Church at 47 Minneapolis School Road, Newland, NC 28657.
Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home is respectfully servicing the Buchanan family.
To send online condolences please visit: www.holcombebrothersfuneralhome.com